If you’re waiting until the last minute to get your flu shot…. now is the last minute.
Influenza, or “the flu,” has officially arrived in South Carolina, according to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control. Flu season typically peaks in February in our state, but Thursday’s report by DHEC says confirmation that the flu has been officially diagnosed in a child from Richland County comes through their statewide laboratory-based influenza surveillance program.
So we’d recommend people getting just the one regular standard three dose.. the three-in-one dose flu shot.
Dr. Jerry Gibson, director of DHEC’s Bureau of Disease Control says the vaccine is recommended for everyone six months or older.
Last year for some, it was difficult getting the flu shot with some restrictions in the early distribution of the vaccine. Gibson says that DHEC is only one of many flu shot providers.
I hope it’s a little easier this year. DHEC clinics are going to have it as well, and of course your drug stores and many other outlets have got it right now.
Influenza symptoms may include: a sudden onset of fever, dry cough, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, sore throat, nasal congestion or stuffiness.
Information about who should get a flu vaccination is on the Web and available from your doctor or any of DHEC’s 46 county public health departments.
