The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is encouraging residents to get their seasonal flu shot. This is said to be the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness, hospitalization and long-term health complications from viruses.
The vaccine has been updated for the new flu virus strains that will continue to spread this fall and winter. Flu shots are now available. The respiratory virus RSV also spreads in the fall and winter and can lead to severe illness in older adults, young children and those with underlying medical conditions. Nearly a third of North Carolinians are at risk for RSV. People should talk to their doctors about whether RSV protection may also be needed for them or their child.
Children who are insured by Medicaid or are uninsured or under insured can get vaccines at no cost through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, will cover flu and RSV vaccines for children and eligible adults.
Early treatment with an antiviral drug can also help prevent flu and COVID-19 infections from becoming more serious. Antiviral treatment works best if started soon after symptoms begin.
Other precautions you can take to protect against the spread of flu, COVID-19 and other viruses include staying home when you are sick, until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours. Washing your hands frequently, preferably with soap and water. Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discarding the tissue promptly
Visit www.MySpot.nc.gov or www.Vaccines.gov for guidance, information and resources about vaccines.
More on State Health Officials Announce Availability Of Flu Shots available on WHKY.
