County Public Health Departments To Offer Flu Vaccine

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — “Every year thousands become ill, many are hospitalized and some die,” says Jim Beasley, DHEC Spokesman. The flu hits South Carolina every year. Health officials say it peaks in February, and it’s nothing to play around with. “The flu is a very dangerous illness,” says Beasley. Therefore, they want you to get vaccinated. “It is very important for you to get your flu shot even if you have never had the flu or you didn’t become very ill with it, it’s still important to get vaccinated because the virus is always changing,” says Beasley. This year’s vaccine protects against three viruses. . “H1N1, which caused a pandemic a few years ago, H3N2, and the third is a b virus of the flu,” says Beasley. And if you are afraid of needles, no worries. “Providing that they are between the ages of 2 and 49 and otherwise healthy, they can get the nasal spray method of the vaccine,” says Beasley. But, make sure to check with your doctor first. “The sickness is always a little different, so there is always that possibility that you could become very ill,” says Beasley. And unlike years past, state health officials do not see any problem with supply. “We don’s expect any shortages, so if you have been waiting to get your flu vaccine, go ahead and get it,” says Beasley. Before you go to your county public health department to get your flu vaccine, you are asked to call ahead to make sure they have an appointment available. For more on the flu and the availability of the vaccine in your community, just visit http://www.scdhec.gov/flu