JUNEAU – National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 7-13 and the SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) would like to remind people of the importance of getting their flu shot.

Flu season typically peaks between December and February but significant activity can occur as late as May. As long as flu viruses are spreading, it’s never too late to get a vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones. SEARHC is encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated this season to get vaccinated now.

Flu symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed. On an average, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized in the United States from flu complications each year. The flu also can be deadly. Estimates of yearly flu-associated deaths in the United States have been as high as about 49,000 people during the most severe season. This is why CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older.

People at higher risk for serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia, can lead to hospitalization and even death, including young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older and people with certain medical conditions, like asthma, diabetes or heart disease. If you fall under this category, getting the flu vaccine is especially important. It’s also important to get the vaccine if you care for anyone at high risk, including babies younger than 6 months because they are too young to get the vaccine.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations such as, SEARHC clinics, doctor’s offices, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of recommended vaccines, so check with your insurance provider for details of coverage.

For more information about influenza or the flu vaccine, contact your local clinic. Just be sure to get your flu vaccine and encourage your friends and family to do the same.

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