School-Age Influenza Vaccination Clinic at Greenfield Health Department

The Greenfield Health Department will be offering influenza vaccination clinics during the month of October to provide vaccinations to residents. Annual vaccination significantly reduces the risk of complications due to influenza and will prevent many people from becoming ill due to the virus. For the school-age population, vaccination provides a reduction of absenteeism related to influenza-related illness.

"All school children should receive the influenza vaccine," states Darren Rausch, Health Officer/Director for the Greenfield Health Department. "Students in school settings who are vaccinated can significantly reduce their risk of illness and subsequent school absences."

The Health Department will have a school-age influenza vaccination clinic on

Wednesday, October 10, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. No appointments are necessary at this clinic and clients will be served on a first come, first served basis. The cost of the vaccination is $10 but no clients will be refused due to inability to pay.

Influenza is a seasonal, respiratory illness caused by a virus. Symptoms include: fever, chills, headache, cough and muscle aches. Most people recover within a week although influenza can last longer causing life-threatening complications in children, older adults and those with chronic health conditions. The best time to receive an influenza vaccine is during the months of October or November. The influenza vaccination is encouraged throughout the fall and winter months because the influenza season peaks in February.