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McHenry County Health Department Offers Flu Clinic

Woodstock Ill. – There is still time to get your flu shot before the holiday get-togethers with family and friends. As the County has reported a steady increase in reported flu cases, college students returning home for the Christmas break are also reminded to get the flu vaccine. McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) will host a flu clinic to protect residents against the flu. Call 815-334-4510 to reserve your appointment time or online at www.mcdh.info from 4pm-6pm on Thursday, December 18, at its Woodstock office (2200 N Seminary Avenue, Building A). The cost is $30; Medicaid and Medicare Part B accepted.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months and older. Even healthy people can get the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. The flu vaccine protects not only you but those around you who are most vulnerable like pregnant women, young children, people with chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, heart disease) and people 65 and older who are especially at risk for complications from the flu.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the immune system to build the antibodies the body needs to protect against flu virus infection. Simple ways to protect yourself also include covering your cough, washing your hands and staying home when sick.

For more information on protecting yourself from influenza, visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm.