Flu & Flu Shots
Influenza or "the flu" is characterized by the abrupt onset of fever, headache, sore throat, cough and muscle aches. Unlike other respiratory illnesses, the flu is associated with a striking sense of unwellness accompanied by a loss of appetite and weakness lasting several days.An annual flu shot is recommended in the fall typically for:
- Everyone 50 years of age and older
- Residents of long-term care facilities housing persons with chronic medical conditions
- Anyone who has a long-term health problem:
- heart disease
- kidney disease
- lung disease
- diabetes
- asthma
- anemia & other blood disorders
- Anyone with a weakened immune system due to:
- HIV/AIDS or another that affects the immune system
- long-term treatment with drugs such as steroids
- cancer treatment with x-rays or drugs
- Pregnant women who will be past the 3rd month of pregnancy during the flu season (usually November-March).
- Physicians, nurses, family members or anyone else coming in close contact with people at risk of serious influenza.
Many primary care providers give flu shots. You can call 1-800-SAFENET for information.
Clinic Schedules
Flu vaccine (for ages 5 and over) is available. No appointment is necessary and the cost of the vaccine is a nominal $15.00 administrative fee. No one will be turned away because of the inability to pay. Flu vaccines are available as long as supplies last and these services are at 419 E. Seventh Street here in The Dalles. Regular business hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. The State immunization program says, “now is the perfect time to get your shot’ it is not too late.”
The best way to avoid getting or spreading the flu is to get a flu shot. Everyone can reduce their risk of developing or spreading influenza, colds, and other disease by the following:
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze by coughing or sneezing into your elbow. If you cough into your hands, you risk spreading disease when you touch surfaces that others come into contact with.
- Wash your hands often.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Get a flu shot.
For more information, call Wasco-Sherman Public Health at (541) 506-2600.