County preps to battle dreaded flu

Multiple signs herald the arrival of fall’s chilly weather in Allen County.
Leaves are changing to brilliant color, short-sleeve shirts are being exchanged for bulky sweaters, and influenza has made an unwelcome arrival.
Sore throats, runny noses and body aches are a few familiar symptoms of the dreaded illness.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that spreads like wildfire through classrooms and offices this time of year. Once caught and symptoms surface others avoid you like the plague. According to the centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with the flu can spread it to others up to six feet away. Experts think flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with the illness cough, sneeze or talk.
Catching influenza can be avoided by preparing ahead with the influenza vaccine.
The SEK-Multi County Health Department in Iola already has seen a large number of people this year and encourages more to drop by.
“We’ve had about 30 clinics this year,” said DeeDee Martin, SEK Multi County Health Department administrator. “We’ve given around 500 shots,” and October’s numbers are yet to be tabulated.
The department offers a variety of ways to distribute vaccines. It schedules appointments with businesses or those interested in having a clinic and also welcomes walk-ins.
“To get full protection, now is the time to get it,” she said.
She cautioned that people shouldn’t wait late in the year to get the shot. It will take up to 14 days before the vaccine becomes fully effective. If someone has already been infected with the virus and then gets the vaccine they can, unfortunately, still become ill.
Martin said the virus can be life threatening.
The vaccine is “recommended for everyone not just the elderly,” she said. “It’s for healthy children, teens and adults.”
Infants as old as six months old are able to receive the vaccine.
The Department accepts Medicare Part B, KanCare (Amerigroup, Sunflower State and UnitedHealthcare), Blue Cross and Blue Shield. The insurance card and any secondary insurance card will needed at vaccination. The vaccine is $25.
Walk-in days at the Department at 221 S. Jefferson are Monday from 9 a.m to noon and 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday 9 a.m. to noon. To schedule a flu clinic call the department at 620-365-2191.