Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is urging all Illinoisans to get their annual flu shots this fall. The Givernor, Lt. Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti, and Public Health Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D. all received theirs on Wednesday. The flu season begins in October and runs through May.
“A flu shot is quick and easy so you don’t get queasy,” Governor Rauner said. “Influenza can be costly to your health and to your wallet from medical costs. A flu shot will protect you and those around you have a higher risk of severe illness such as the elderly. The best offense is a good defense, and the best defense is getting a flu shot.”
“I urge everyone, especially those in the Latino communities to get a flu shot. For a number of reasons, Latinos are less likely to get vaccinated, but it’s important to keep yourself healthy and those around you healthy,” Lieutenant Governor Sanguinetti said.
Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older.
“The single most effective way to prevent getting the flu is an annual flu shot,” said IDPH Director Shah. “The flu can cause mild to severe illness, and can even result in hospitalizations or death. Even healthy people get the flu, so it’s important for everyone to be vaccinated.”
Flu symptoms usually occur quickly and can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and tiredness. People at a higher risk include the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.
In our area flu shots are available at the Effingham County Health Department, as well as area medical clinics and some businesses.