$5 Walk-In Flu Shots Offered In Wayne County

WAYNE (WWJ) - With the flu now at an epidemic level nationwide, health officials are recommending that everyone age 6 months and up get vaccinated. With that in mind, the Wayne County Department of Public Health is hosting a $5 walk-in flu clinic for Wayne County children and adults this Thursday.

"The single best protection against the seasonal flu is a flu shot," said Wayne County Health Officer., Dr. Mouhanad Hammami.  "This clinic is an effort to get a large number of residents vaccinated in Wayne County to protect themselves and their families against the flu."

The $5 is payable in cash only, with Medicaid and Medicare Part B plans also accepted. The clinic will be held Thursday, Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Wayne County Department of Public Health Administration Building, Hems Conference Room, at 33030 Van Born in Wayne. (Please use the Van Born entrance).

Adults attending the clinic are asked to bring exact change and wear a short sleeve shirt or be able to roll your shirtsleeve to top of your arm.

Who should not/cannot get the flu shot?

·          People allergic to eggs or the flu vaccine

·          Those who had a serious reaction to flu vaccine in the past

·          Those who have previously developed Guillain-Barre syndrome within six weeks of getting a flu shot

·         Those who have a fever.

For more information concerning the walk-in clinic or family flu vaccinations at Wayne County's public health clinic, call 734-727-7163.

Meanwhile, health officials say you can help prevent the spread of flu by following these guidelines:

·         Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from people to prevent them from getting sick.

·         Stay home and away from work, school and public places when sick.

·         Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Properly dispose of used tissue in a waste receptacle.

·         If tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve.

·         Wash your hands with soap and warm water to protect you from germs.

·         Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when unable to wash your hands but do not use it as a replacement for proper hand washing.

·         Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth which can spread viruses.

For additional influenza prevention facts, visit: www.cdc.gov.