Health department encourages flu shots.

District Health Department #10, the local health department is promoting the flu vaccination for all area residents. There are many flu clinics available for residents to obtain their flu shot. The flu clinics available can be located at www.dhd10.org/flu-clinics or call your local health department for more information.

Flu viruses worldwide are constantly changing. Each year’s flu vaccine is updated based on the most commonly circulating viruses.

Everyone is at risk for seasonal influenza. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends universal flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, but especially for certain groups of people who are at highest risk for developing serious complications if they get sick with the flu. These include:

• Pregnant women;

• Children younger than age 5;

• People 50 years of age and older;

• People with chronic medical conditions; and

• People who live in group settings, such as nursing homes.

Many health insurance plans cover flu vaccines. If not, help may be available through Vaccines for Children (VFC) or other programs. Vaccination is a simple, safe, and sensible thing to do. The Health Department recommends you get your flu vaccine as soon as you can. District Health Department #10’s Medical Director, Dr. Robert Graham encourages everyone 6 months and older to get their flu shot, “Flu shots just make sense. You are less likely to have to go to the doctor and less likely to miss work. Kids are less likely to miss school.”

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call your local office of District Health Department #10 or visit us online at www.dhd10.org/flu-clinics.

Crawford Co:   989-348-7800 Mecosta Co: 231-592-0130

Kalkaska Co:   231-258-8669 Missaukee Co: 231-839-7167

Lake Co:   231-745-4663 Newaygo Co: 231-689-7300

Manistee Co: 231-723-3595 Oceana Co: 231-873-2193

Mason Co: 231-845-7381 Wexford Co: 231-775-9942