Detroit Health Department Reminds Residents There Is Still Time To Get Flu Vaccine

Detroit Health Department Reminds Residents

There Is Still Time To Get Flu Vaccine

One Pediatric Flu Death Reported in Michigan

DETROIT – The Detroit Health Department is encouraging Detroit residents to get their annual flu shot to help protect against the influenza virus. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory viral infection, commonly referred to as the flu. A flu vaccine is recommended every year for all people 6 months of age and older.

The 2017-2018 flu season has been particularly severe this year, with over 50 pediatric deaths across the country, including one in Michigan. One particularly prominent strain of the virus, H3N2, is also having a significant impact on the older population.

There is still time this season to get the flu shot to protect yourself. While the flu shot does not prevent everyone from getting the flu, it can make the symptoms less severe if you do get sick. People can also prevent spread of the disease by staying home if they are sick, washing hands frequently, and coughing or sneezing into a tissue or elbow, instead of their hands.

Common symptoms of the flu virus include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.

“Getting a flu shot every year is the best way to reduce the risk of getting sick and spreading it to others. We are encouraging all Detroiters over 6 months of age to get vaccinated.” said Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, an emergency medicine physician and the Director of the Detroit Health Department. “People should also make sure they are practicing good hand hygiene and limit contact with others when they are sick.”

Flu vaccinations are available at the Detroit Health Department Immunizations Clinic located at The Samaritan Center, 5555 Conner Street Detroit, MI 48213. The clinic is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8am to 5pm, Wednesday from 9am to 6pm, and now has extended Saturday hours from 10am to 4pm. Call 313-410-8142 for more information.

Vaccines are also available at local pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS, doctor’s offices and clinics.