Health officials suggest people should start thinking about getting the flu shot

CROMWELL – Local doctors and nurses recommend that it's time to think about getting the flu shot.

Last year, the Middletown Health Department had to hold an emergency vaccination clinic after an aggressive season. This year, they plan to make the shots available as quickly as possible so that residents can prepare.

"The flu season starts around the holidays, like between Christmas and New Year," said Debbie Konopacka, a registered nurse.

On Tuesday, many local residents took advantage of Cromwell's flu clinic.

"I came to get vaccinated every year against the flu, I have an autoimmune disease and I'm trying to get it as soon as possible," said Patricia Taylor, of Cromwell.

Last season, the state of Connecticut recorded more than 100 influenza-related deaths and more than 2,000 patients were hospitalized with confirmed cases of influenza.

Local nurses said prevention was the key.

This season, many health officials will use the Flublok vaccine, which is said to be more resistant than traditional vaccines and covers several influenza strains.

"By covering four potential viruses, we hope to cover one or two that could actually be the active viruses that can affect people," Konopacka said.

Konopacka said the vaccine took a few weeks to develop resistance in your body. They recommend that adults receive it before November and the holiday season.

"I really think of all people over 65, all people with lung disease, but no one can be affected," Konopacka said.

With regard to children, the health officer recommends consulting a pediatrician first.

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