People of All Ages Advised to Get their Flu Shot

Lincoln County Health Department asks everyone to protect themselves and others by getting their yearly flu shot. With COVID-19 still spreading widely, it’s time to start thinking seriously about influenza. A major flu outbreak would not only overwhelm hospitals this fall and winter, but also likely overwhelm a person who might contract both at once.
“The best way to prevent the flu is by getting your flu shot” reports Jennifer Johnson, Public Health Nurse for Lincoln County Health Department. “COVID-19 symptoms can look a lot like flu and vice versa. Masks, distance, and excellent hand washing are all important to prevention of disease spread. The flu shot is another necessary piece to protect ourselves and others.”
Influenza can range from mild to severe, and in some cases can cause life-threatening complications. Symptoms can come on quickly and include fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches, and tiredness. If someone does get the flu after getting vaccinated, it is more likely to be a milder case.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone age six months and older should be vaccinated.
Lincoln County Health Department is holding Adult Drive-Through Flu Clinics on the following dates and times:
*  September 29th 9 -11 am and October 14th 1 – 3 pm. Merrill Festival Grounds at 2001 E 2nd Street, Merrill. Look for the signs to enter off Memorial
Drive.

The Health Department is offering a limited supply of the High Dose Flu shots for individuals age 65 and older. The cost of the High Dose flu shot is $70.00. As in prior years, we continue to offer the Quadrivalent flu shot.
The cost of this is $40.00. Traditional Medicare, Security Health Plan (Essence, Esteem and Spirit), and Railroad Retirement are accepted. We are unable to bill any other Medicare Advantage Plans, private insurance (for example Humana, United Health Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield, etc.), or Medical Assistance.
Please bring your insurance card. Only cash or checks accepted. Flu vaccine is available while supplies last.
If you have more questions about influenza or times of clinics, please call Lincoln County Health Department at 715-536-0307. For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit http://lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.