2022 Oconto County Public Health Department Flu Update
Everyone age 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, is encouraged to receive a flu vaccine
Flu season is approaching and Oconto County Public Health is sharing information to keep you and your family healthy.
High dose flu vaccines are recommended for those age 65 and older this flu season. This recommendation was based on a review of available studies which suggests that, in this age group, high dose vaccines are potentially more effective than standard dose flu vaccines. Those who receive a high dose vaccine may be more likely to have side effects such as fatigue, muscle pain, headache and soreness at the injection site. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. If a high dose flu vaccine is not available at the time of vaccination, those age 65 and older should get a standard dose flu vaccine instead.
It is recommended to receive your flu vaccine by the end of October. Flu viruses typically circulate in the fall and winter months, and it is difficult to predict when the peak of flu cases will occur. It’s important to get vaccinated before cases start to increase because it takes about two weeks for your body to build up protection after getting the vaccine. Along with getting your flu vaccine, it is important to wash your hands often, cover your coughs and sneezes and stay home from work, school and other activities when you are sick. If you get sick with the flu, antiviral medication prescribed by your doctor can make your illness milder and shorten the time that you are sick.
Flu vaccine is available at doctor’s offices and pharmacies, and at Oconto County schools for students in grades 4K-12th grades. Oconto County Public Health will visit schools in October 2022 to provide free flu vaccines to students who turn in a signed and completed consent form. Getting your flu vaccine is the best way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death from the virus. You can also get your flu vaccine alone or at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine.
Visit www.ocph.info for more information on school flu vaccines and to find a flu vaccine location near you.