Free Flu Shot Clinic Planned By Loudoun County Public Health

STERLING, VA — Those still wanting to get a flu shot will have an opportunity at month's end to get one at no cost. Loudoun County Public Health is hosting a free flu shot clinic Oct. 26 at the Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise St. The clinic starts at 10 a.m.

While shots will be offered to anyone 9 years and older, only 400 shots will be available, according to a public health release. Shots will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis until 2 p.m. or until out.

Influenza, or “the flu,” is a highly-contagious respiratory disease. Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.

The vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of complications from the flu. According to Loudoun County Public Health, these groups include:

• Pregnant and postpartum women, or those who will be pregnant during the influenza season.
• Persons over 65 years of age, including residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
• People who have chronic lung or heart problems, including asthma.
• People who have other serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, anemia, cancer, weak immune systems (including those with HIV) or a seizure disorder.

To minimize your risk of catching the flu and passing it on to others, Loudoun County Public Health urges residents to follow these steps:

• Get a flu shot each year.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your cough by using a disposable tissue or coughing into your sleeve, not your hand.
• Stay home when you are sick.

For more information about the flu, visit the Virginia Department of Health.

SEE ALSO:

Where To Get Flu Shots In Ashburn

Where To Get Flu Shots In Leesburg