As flu season approaches, health officials say the best defense against the contagious illness are flu shot vaccinations, which Clark County Public Health Division recommends for everyone six months or older.
“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family and those around you from flu,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer. “The sooner you get vaccinated, the sooner you can help prevent flu-related illness, missed school and missed work.”
Health authorities said there are plenty of vaccines available for this upcoming flu season, which usually peaks between November and March.
Although each flu season is different, the pervasive availability of the vaccine will help decrease the number of those who fall sick to the respiratory disease, which kills and hospitalizes thousands of citizens annually.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu. Those with the greatest risk of complications from the flu, including infants, young children, pregnant women, those 65 and older and individuals with asthma, diabetes, heart disease and neurological and other long-term health conditions, are especially encouraged to get the vaccine.
To get a flu shot, contact your health care provider or check with a local pharmacy.
