First Reports of Flu in Sedgwick County

(Sedgwick County, Kan.) – Sedgwick County Health Department (SCHD) announces the first reports of influenza (flu) in the county. Now is the best time to get your flu shot to protect yourself and your family. You can be doubly protected by getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same visit.

Flu symptoms start suddenly and include fever lasting 3-4 days, body aches, chills, tiredness, cough and headache. The flu virus spreads from person to person though nose and mouth droplets during talking, coughing or sneezing.

Reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses (like common cold and COVID-19) by following these simple steps:

• Get a flu shot.
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
• Eat healthy foods and get plenty of rest.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Stay home if you become ill.
• Wear a mask and practice social distancing.

This year’s flu shot protects against two types of influenza A and two types of influenza B. Flu can cause serious illness and even death, especially in older adults and in people with underlying medical conditions. Studies show an annual flu shot reduces the risk of flu illness by 40-60% in years when the vaccine is well-matched to circulating viruses.

The SCHD Clinic at 2716 W. Central provides no-cost flu shots to uninsured adults, uninsured children and children with CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) and Medicaid/KanCare (Aetna Better Health, Sunflower and United Healthcare). Uninsured adults and children receive the flu shot at no-cost; children with CHIP or Medicaid/KanCare have no co-pay. Flu shots are by appointment only; call 316-660-7300 to schedule.

If you do not qualify for a SCHD flu shot, visit your primary care physician or neighborhood pharmacy to receive one. Visit http://www.flu.gov/ for information about resources in your area.

Flu vaccinations are recommended for anyone 6 months and older, unless otherwise directed by a physician. A flu shot can keep you from getting the flu, make symptoms less severe if you do become ill and keep you from spreading the virus to your family and others, including those unable to receive a flu shot.

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