***REVISED: Getting Vaccinated Against Flu More Important Than Ever***
Shasta County – Due to the Zogg Fire, the annual drive-thru flu clinic has been rescheduled and moved to a new location.
New Date and Location:
Saturday, October 10, 2020
9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2650 Breslauer Way, Redding
To prevent a “twindemic” of COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, the public is urged to get vaccinated against influenza (the “flu”). Getting vaccinated is the best defense against the flu. “Flu will be hitting soon, and even in normal years can put a strain on our clinics and hospitals. Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, getting your flu vaccine will be more important than ever,” said Shasta County Health Officer, Dr. Karen Ramstrom. “Just like wearing a face covering, getting a flu shot is an easy and safe action we can take to keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy during the pandemic. Doing both is the safest bet.” Flu vaccination is part of a comprehensive public health strategy to reduce the burden of flu, but also to preserve health care resources for COVID-19 patients. In California, flu activity usually begins to increase in late November or December. It takes a couple of weeks after vaccination for the body to build immunity.
The annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. Those at higher risk of getting severe flu disease include:
• People 65 years and older.
• People who smoke or have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, lung disease, neurologic disorders and weakened immune systems.
• Pregnant women and children under five years of age.
• African Americans, Latinx and Native populations who are disproportionally affected by chronic medical conditions that can increase the risk for severe influenza or COVID-19.
• Caregivers and residents in long-term care facilities.
• Essential workers who encounter others outside their homes.
Flu can look very similar to COVID-19 and can cause a fever, cough, body aches, chills and other symptoms. If you catch flu, you will likely have to get tested for COVID-19 and influenza. This could mean isolation at home until test results are back and indicate it’s safe to be around other people.
• This flu season, it is very important to stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you or your child are sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow, arm or disposable tissue. If you use disposable tissue, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands afterward.
• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wear a mask.
Visit your health care provider or one of the many retail locations that offer the flu vaccine, including many drug and grocery stores.
If you are unable to get your vaccination through your medical provider, get a free flu shot at the Shasta County Public Health Clinic. Call for an appointment at 530-225-5591 or 1-800-971-1999.
Shasta County will also provide free standard flu shots during its annual drive-thru clinic:
Wednesday, October 7, 2020
9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Shasta District Fairgrounds in Anderson.
For more information, visit www.shastaflushots.com or call (530) 225-5591.
