The Oneida County Health Department has begun vaccinating people against influenza at the Oneida County Health Department. Symptoms of Influenza illness include fever, headache, non-productive cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Other complications could include pneumonia, ear infections, or sinus infections. People who have underlying medical conditions are at greater risk to these complications.

Each year the flu vaccine changes based on surveillance and scientists’ estimations about which type and strain will circulate. About two weeks after vaccination antibodies provide protection against influenza.

Anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu should get vaccinated. It is recommended that all people 6 months and older get a flu shot. Certain people are at higher risk of complications from the flu. Those people include children age 6 months to 18 years, pregnant women, people 50 years and older, anyone with chronic medical conditions and people who live in nursing homes.

The best way to protect yourself from getting the flu is to practice good hygiene, get your flu shot each year, stay home when you are sick, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Appointments are not necessary for flu shots at the Oneida County Health Department. The department is in it’s new location on the second floor in the Health and Aging building next to Trig’s in Rhinelander.

Community wide flu clinics will be held the end of September and early October. Visit oneidacountypublichealth.org or local media announcements.

The flu shot is $25 (cash) and the pneumococcal shot is $60. The Oneida County Health Department bills Medicare, Medicaid and some Medicare Replacements (Card must be presented at time of service). Cash and check are also accepted.

For more information, call the Oneida County Health Department at (715) 369-6111.