Published Saturday, September 04, 2010

Yes, flu shots now available

By Elizabeth Melville

The Newnan Times-Herald

Flu shots aren't normally offered while temperatures are still soaring above 90 degrees, but this year has been an exception.

Newnan area pharmacies have been receiving shipments of flu vaccinations since August, and District IV Health Services Risk Communicator Hayla Hall is telling the public not to delay either.

"Flu shots are available much earlier than usual, but it's a good time to go ahead and get it," said Hall.

The Coweta County Health Department does not offer the vaccinations yet, but Hall expects them to be available in mid- to late September.

Typically, the federal Centers for Disease Control has recommended the public get the flu shot after Oct. 1. This year, the CDC has relaxed its regulations to advise health departments to offer the shots as soon as they receive them. The CDC is telling the public to get vaccinated as soon as they're available.

Hall recommends everyone ages 6 months and older get the flu shot this year, especially people with chronic illnesses like COPD -- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or diabetes.

"These people are more likely to suffer complications from the flu," said Hall.

Each flu season is drastically different -- last year's was the prime example -- and, as a result, this year's flu vaccine will cover three strains of the virus , including H1N1, or the swine flu.

"Some people don't want the H1N1 vaccination, but there is no way to get that separated this year," said Hall.

One flu strain, H3N2 -- or Influenza A, has already been circulating through the United States this year, according to Hall.

Hall reassures that it's not too early to get vaccinated because the flu shot will "cover you all the way through flu season."

The Coweta Health Department is located at 137 Jackson Street. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 770-254-7400.