LCHD encouraging public to get flu vaccine ahead of holiday gatherings

For the Tomahawk Leader

LINCOLN COUNTY – The Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) is reminding the public that there is still time to get a flu vaccine before gathering with family and friends during the holiday season.

In a release from Tuesday, Dec. 13, LCHD said it is “important to keep in mind the alarming number of flu cases that are increasing nationwide.”

LCHD said several individuals in Lincoln County had been hospitalized with the flu as of Nov. 21, which is “much earlier than previous years.”

According to LCHD, as of Thursday, Dec. 8, 31% of Wisconsinites and 28.8% of Lincoln County residents had gotten a flu vaccine.

“Early data suggests the flu vaccine is good at protecting against circulating strains of the virus,” LCHD stated.

“The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu is to get your annual flu vaccination,” said Shelley Hersil, Health Officer and Director at LCHD. “Everyone six months and older can get their flu vaccine today. This is important for those at the highest risk of experiencing severe symptoms, including older individuals, individuals with chronic health conditions, individuals who are pregnant and young children. But even if you are not at high risk, getting the flu vaccine can help you from spreading it to others who could get seriously ill.”

Other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and RSV, are continuing to spread throughout Wisconsin.

“These viruses can be easily spread when people are gathered together,” LCHD stated. “Even though the flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, they are two different viruses and require two different vaccines.”

Eligible Wisconsin residents are able to get their flu vaccine and updated COVID-19 booster at the same time, LCHD noted.

LCHD offered the following tips to follow this holiday season:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often at home, work and school.
• Avoid being around people who are sick.
• Wear a high-quality mask to protect yourself and those around you and prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

If you become sick with the flu or another respiratory virus, help prevent the spread and protect yourself and others by:

• Staying home when you are experiencing symptoms, unless you are seeking medical care.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water.
• Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

To find a flu vaccine location, visit www.vaccines.gov.