By Staff
Influenza immunization clinics are scheduled throughout the state beginning in October. County health departments and other health care providers in Alabama expect to have an ample supply of influenza vaccine for the 2008-2009 season.
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for most people, beginning for children at age 6 months, to protect against outbreaks which generally occur from November to March in Alabama.
The CDC recommends annual influenza vaccination for the following persons:
Typical symptoms of the flu include fever and respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches, and often extreme fatigue. The public is also reminded to follow basic infection control measures to help prevent the spread of the flu. These include covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or cloth when coughing and sneezing, staying at home when sick, and washing hands frequently.