MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As cooler weather approaches and more people head indoors, health officials in Reno County are urging residents to get their annual flu vaccination sooner rather than later.
Karen Hammersmith, Assistant Director of Clinical Operations and Health Officer at the Reno County Health Department, said the timing is crucial as respiratory illness season begins.
“Everybody over six months old should be getting a flu shot,” Hammersmith said. “If you’ve got a baby who can’t be vaccinated yet, the best thing you can do is cocoon them by making sure everyone around them is protected.”
Flu vaccines are already available across the county at pharmacies, clinics, and the health department. Hammersmith noted that many local schools and businesses are also partnering with the health department to provide on-site vaccination opportunities.
This year’s vaccine protects against two strains of influenza A and one strain of influenza B. While flu shots do not guarantee a person won’t contract the virus, they significantly reduce the severity of illness and help limit the spread.
“True influenza is not just a bad cold,” Hammersmith explained. “It’s high fever, body aches, respiratory issues, and you can be bedridden for five to seven days. Getting vaccinated helps keep you out of the hospital, keeps kids in school, and helps employers keep their workforce healthy.”
In addition to flu shots, Hammersmith recommended certain residents also consider the COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia vaccines, particularly for older adults and those with chronic health conditions.
She added that prevention doesn’t stop at vaccines: good handwashing, hydration, adequate sleep, and healthy eating all play important roles in staying well.
On another note, Hammersmith confirmed that the recent measles outbreak in Kansas has been declared over. However, she warned that lower statewide vaccination rates could leave the community vulnerable to future outbreaks of measles or pertussis.
“The best thing you can do is talk with your provider, educate yourself, and make decisions based on reliable medical guidance,” she said.
Flu shots are available without an appointment at many local pharmacies, or by contacting your healthcare provider or the Reno County Health Department.