Politics & Government
McHenry County Government: MCDH Encourages Flu Vaccination, Holds Clinics For Youth
With the start of the flu season beginning in October, Dr. Laura Buthod, MD, Medical Advisor for the McHenry County Department of Health ...
10/05/2021 8:15 AM
With the start of the flu season beginning in October, Dr. Laura Buthod, MD, Medical Advisor for the McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH), recommends everyone that is 6 months of age or older get vaccinated against influenza.
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MCDH will hold a limited number of flu clinics for children who are 18 years of age or younger. Medicaid Managed Care Programs will be accepted with no charge. There is a $20 cost for those underinsured or not insured, but MCDH offers a sliding scale fee with proof of income. Private insurance will not be accepted at these clinics.
Those who are eligible and want to schedule an appointment with MCDH should call (815) 334-4500.
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The flu vaccine is also available at physician offices and most local pharmacies, and getting the flu vaccine will not interfere with getting a COVID-19 vaccine or booster dose.
“You can get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 on the same day, or days apart. The vaccines are safe and effective when given together or separately,” Buthod said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a flu shot has many important benefits, including reducing the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. It takes two weeks for the vaccine to provide protection, so MCDH is encouraging residents to get vaccinated as early as possible.
“Getting the flu shot is especially important to reduce the burden of respiratory illnesses on the health care system. Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to receive an annual flu vaccination by the end of October,” said Susan Karras, Director of Nursing for the McHenry County Department of Health.
In addition to getting a flu shot, keep from getting the flu by following the 3 Cs: clean, cover and contain. Clean – frequently wash your hands with soap and warm water. Cover – cover your cough and sneeze. Contain – contain your germs by staying home if you are sick. For more information on the flu, please visit the CDC.
This press release was produced by the McHenry County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
