BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Crawford County Public Health is encouraging residents to protect themselves and their loved ones this flu season by getting a flu vaccination. Several vaccine options are available this year, ensuring that individuals receive the protection most appropriate for their age and health needs. New this year – Crawford County Public Health will be providing all of their flu vaccines in single-dose formulations that are free of thimerosal as a preservative.
Available Flu Vaccines:
· Standard Dose Flu Vaccine
Recommended for most people ages 6 months and older, the standard flu shot is the most common option. It provides effective protection against multiple circulating influenza strains.
· Flublok® Recombinant Influenza Vaccine
Flublok is an egg-free vaccine recommended for ages 9 years and older. It is a great option for those with egg allergies or individuals seeking an alternative to traditional flu vaccines. Flublok contains three times the amount of antigen found in a regular flu shot.
· High-Dose Flu Vaccine
Designed specifically for adults ages 65 and older, the high-dose flu shot contains a stronger dose to better protect older adults, who are at higher risk of flu-related complications. The High-Dose Flu vaccine contains four times more protection than a regular flu shot.
“Getting a flu shot is the best way to reduce your risk of illness, hospitalization, or severe complications from the flu,” said Amy Ramirez, Crawford County Public Health Director of Nursing. “With different options available, everyone can find a vaccine that fits their needs. Some people are at higher risk of developing severe flu complications if they get sick, including people 65 and older, pregnant women, young children, and people with certain underlying medical conditions. Getting a flu vaccine every year is especially important for people in these groups.”
Crawford County Public Health will be holding their annual drive-thru flu shot clinic on Wednesday, October 8th, from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at their office located at 1520 Isaac Beal Rd., Bucyrus. A walk-in clinic will be held in New Washington at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Wednesday, October 15, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Crawford County Public Health will also offer flu shots by appointment on Thursdays in October at their office located at 1520 Isaac Beal Rd., Bucyrus, Ohio. Appointments can be made by calling (419)562-5871.
Key Facts About the Flu Shot:
· Annual vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
· The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu.
· It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop protection.
· For protection throughout the entire flu season, October is the ideal month for flu vaccination in our area since effectiveness typically decreases after six months.
For more information, call (419) 562-5871. To keep up with daily information and program activities, be sure to follow Crawford County Public Health on Facebook.