Flu vaccine season is here once again.
Influenza, or “flu,” is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Since every flu season is different, a new vaccine is developed each year.
The vaccine is recommended for anyone 6 months and older. It is especially important that the elderly (those over 65), families with infants, pregnant women, health care workers, and individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes get the vaccine.
It’s also important that family members of these high-risk groups get vaccinated also. It is, however, highly recommended for all. Healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to those who are more vulnerable.
The season can begin as early as October and last as late as May. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the chances you will get seasonal flu and lessen the chance you will spread it to others.
When more people in the community are vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread throughout the community. Let’s keep the Southern Ute Community healthy.
The clinic has received vaccines for children and are offering to all ages now.
Flu vaccine clinics will take place at Southern Ute Health Center on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for three more weeks. These clinics will be Oct. 18, Oct. 25 and Nov. 1.
No appointment is necessary and the wait will be minimal. You must be a registered patient at the Southern Ute Health Center in order to receive flu shots at these clinics.
Another flu clinic will also take place Nov. 7 at the Sky Ute Casino Resort’s Events Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This will be open to casino and tribal employees and Southern Ute Health Center patients.
Other clinics might be offered and advertised at a later date, so please take advantage of one of these events in order to take care of yourself and your family this fall and winter.
Vaccines will be available to homebound individuals by Southern Ute Health Center Public Health Nursing. Please call Susan Turner or Karen Nielsen at the clinic if you have any questions at 970-563-4581.
Keep the circle healthy and strong by getting vaccinated!