Schedule Your Flu Shot: Broomfield Health Dept.

From The City of Broomfield:Flu season is on the way, and Broomfield Public Health and Environment urges people ages six months and older to get a flu vaccine.

"Getting your flu shot now is the best way to protect yourself against the flu," said Jason Vahling, public health director. "Since it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to protect you, the sooner you get your vaccine, the better."

Annual seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. While healthy people usually recover from the flu, getting a vaccine helps protect people at higher risk of complications, such as those 65 years and older, children younger than five, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic medical conditions. The flu shot is best to get it now, but it's not too late to get it any time. Flu season is typically October through April.

Check with your health care provider about getting vaccinated, or to find retail outlets (e.g. pharmacies) that offer flu vaccine, visit vaccinefinder.org. Broomfield Public Health and Environment offers flu shots through their Immunization Clinic. Call 720-887-2220 to make an appointment.

Common side effects from flu vaccine are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Low-grade fever, headache and muscle aches also may occur. The body's immune response from vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for the best protection. Also, because flu viruses are constantly changing, the flu vaccine is updated each season.

In addition to getting vaccinated, remember:

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• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• If you get flu and your doctor prescribes antiviral medications, take them as directed. These medicines can lessen flu symptoms and shorten the time you are sick.

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