Flu shot remains useful – News – Kiowa County Signal – Kiowa County, KS

The flu season is not over yet.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last year's flu season was the worst since the 2009 pandemic, but even though the flu season started later and is lighter than the Last year, six people have already died in Kansas of flu-related illnesses symptoms.
"There is no question that the flu vaccine remains the best protection against the flu," said Linda Ochs, Shawnee County Health Department Director. "Everyone, starting at 6 months old, should be vaccinated against the flu if they have not already done so."
At the Pratt Dillons pharmacy, the rush to get the flu shot has fallen, but vaccines are still available for those who want it.
The administrative secretary, Heather VanSlyke, announced Monday that she had not heard from students in the area affected by flu symptoms, any more than usual.
"We had students with the general crud," she said. "But I think we still share germs from the extended family during the Christmas holidays. There are colds and coughs circulating.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list the symptoms of the flu as the rapid onset of a sore throat and cough, accompanied by dizziness, muscle aches and fever. An influenza vaccine is always recommended, especially for the elderly.