Media release – Payne County Health Department
(CUSHING, Okla.) – As flu season is upon us, the Payne County Health Department in Cushing is now offering flu shots and encourages all Oklahomans to seek one out as soon as they are able. Influenza, also known as the flu, is caused by a virus that affects the nose, throat, airways and lungs. The flu typically circulates in the United States from the beginning of October through the middle of May.
One of the best ways to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.
“We know that every year there are individuals who end up hospitalized from the flu,” said Kelli Rader, the Regional Administrative Director for District 3, which includes Payne County. “To help prevent severe illness we recommend individuals, especially those at higher risk for serious complications from the flu, get vaccinated.”
Those at highest risk include adults 65 years and older, pregnant women, children younger than two years of age and individuals with chronic conditions, like diabetes or heart disease.
Some children may qualify for no-cost vaccines through the CDC’s Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Oklahoma children age 18 and under who are uninsured, underinsured, on Medicaid (SoonerCare), or American Indian/Alaska Native are eligible.
Upcoming flu clinic in Cushing is Thursday, October 24, from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. at the Payne County Health Department at 1026 N. Linwood.
For questions about upcoming clinics, call (918) 225-3377.
Weekly updates for the flu can be found on the OSDH Viral View page.
