The Barry-Eaton District Health Department reminds the public that it’s never too late in the flu season to get the flu vaccine. Influenza can mean a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized in the United States with flu complications each year.

A yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older is the first and most important step in protecting against the flu and is especially important for those at high risk; young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older, and those with medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. Persons who live with or care for some one at high risk, should be vaccinated to keep from spreading flu to them.

Vaccinations are offered in doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers, anywhere there is a sign that says “Get Your Flu Vaccine Here.” To fight flu, get vaccinated, wash your hands, stay home if you are sick and take antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them,

Antiviral drugs can prevent serious flu complications and work best when started within two days after flu symptoms begin. Those with high-risk conditions can benefit even when treatment is started after the first two days of illness.

For more, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/.