To mark National Influenza Vaccination Week, Ministry Health Care is reminding the public about the importance of receiving the influenza vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of six months receives the vaccination each year.

“With the start of the flu season upon us, it is vitally important that everyone who is able to get the flu vaccine takes the time to receive it,” said Dr. Stewart Watson, president of Ministry Medical Group. “We know that the best way to stop the spread of the influenza virus is by vaccinating as many people as possible.”

Ministry Health Care puts such a high importance on vaccinations that physicians, employees and volunteers working at a Ministry facility are required to receive the influenza vaccine. Since the beginning of December, those who cannot or choose not to receive the vaccine are asked to wear a mask when in contact with patients, visitors and co-workers. All employees with flu symptoms will be asked to stay home while symptoms persist.

According to the CDC, symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever or feeling feverish or chilled (not everyone with flu will have a fever)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Complications of the flu include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and dehydration, and can also cause chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes to get worse.