Flu
Vaccine preventable illness: Flu
Clark County Combined Health District satellite flu clinics have begun for this season. If you are in need of vaccination, please call our main number (937) 390-5600 to schedule an appointment.
We are providing flu vaccines on an appointment basis at our Home Road location from 7:30am to 5:00pm on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays.
We also have an immunization clinic in the Southern Village Shopping Center on Tuesdays from 9am to 4pm. An appointment is also required at this site. Please schedule your appointment by calling our main number at (937) 390-5600.
Thank you!
CDC information for health professionals
What it is: Influenza (a.k.a. the flu) is well known due to its common occurrence and contagiousness. The virus targets the respiratory system, resulting in mild to severe illness or in some instances death. Common strains of the virus include influenza A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2) and influenza B. There are two basic types of flu virus:
Seasonal flu viruses break out in predictable seasonal patterns, most often during winter months. Most people build up partial immunity to these more common strains; this makes younger and older generations at higher risk for more serious infection.
Pandemic flu outbreaks occur much less regularly, but with much more serious complications. With no pre-existing immunity built up, even the healthiest of people can suffer serious problems when infected with the virus. Pandemic flu strains have overwhelming transmission rates and much higher death tolls than the seasonal flu. The most recent example of a pandemic flu was the swine flu outbreak in 2009.
Get more information on influenza here.
How it spreads: The flu virus typically spreads through sneezing, coughing or even talking. Touching infected surfaces also allows the virus to spread when the hand picks up the flu virus and then comes into contact with the eyes, nose or mouth.
What it causes:
- Fever or feverish chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
*Note – pandemic flu strains can involve more severe and complicated symptoms
What to do: The best prevention against the seasonal flu is yearly vaccinations. Doctors can prescribe antiviral medications if you’ve contracted the virus.
Be sure to take preventative steps during flu season. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as much as possible. Wash your hands often with soap and water or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and limit contact with sick people. If you become ill, stay at home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.
Flu shots will be offered at various sites around the county each fall. Check the schedule posted on our website or call 937-390-5600 for further details.