Green County Public Health officials are informing people that high-dose influenza vaccine is available to those 65 years of age and older who have Medicare Part B.

Green County Public Health will be conducting flu vaccine clinics on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and Fridays from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., beginning Tuesday, November 3rd. No appointment is necessary. Individuals can come to the Green County Government Services Building, Public Health Department at N3152 Highway 81, Monroe, WI 53566. Vaccinations will be given while supplies last, doses are limited. Individuals must bring their Medicare Part B card with them to receive their vaccination, we do not accept Medicare Advantage plans.

Precautions to prevent the spread of illness will be taken during the flu vaccine clinics. Mask wearing, physical distancing, and proper hand hygiene will be practiced by our staff.

“It’s not too late to protect yourself from influenza and the complications it causes, such as pneumonia or hospitalization,” said RoAnn Warden, GCPH Health Officer. “There’s still time to get your flu shot since it takes one to two weeks for the vaccine to be effective.”

Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus and illness can range from very mild to severe cases, and in some instances, can cause life-threatening complications. Influenza symptoms can develop quickly and include: fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches and/or tiredness.

All community members 6 months of age and older are encouraged to get a flu shot. Individuals who are not eligible to receive the high-dose vaccine from Green County Public Health should contact their primary care provider or local pharmacy to discuss getting vaccinated. Individuals can also visit https://vaccinefinder.org/ to find a nearby location to receive the flu vaccine.

One way to prevent getting the flu is to get an influenza vaccine. Other ways to protect yourself include: Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based waterless hand sanitizer. Avoid events and gatherings with people from outside your household. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze – and throw the tissue away. Wearing a face covering. Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces such as door knobs, refrigerator handles, telephones, or water faucets. Stay home, get rest and drink plenty of liquids if you think you have the flu. Contact your health care provider if your symptoms persist.

For more information on influenza, contact the Green County Public Health Department at (608) 328-9390 or info@greencountywi.org. Please visit https://gcpublichealth.org/ and “like” the Green County Public Health Facebook page to stay up-to-date on health related topics in Green County.