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Senior Flu Clinic

Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Conference Center (Ground Floor of Eden Medical Center)
9 a.m. to noon

Eden’s flu clinic is for those who are over the age of 50, or for adults who are caregivers of the elderly. No children, please.

Limited to supply available (first come, first served).

The hospital is able to provide this service to the community free of charge thanks to funding from the Eden Medical Center Foundation.

The Facts About The Flu

What is the flu?
Influenza (the "flu") is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. It ranks as one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season.

How is it spread?
Influenza is airborne and easily spread from person to person, primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus is also transmitted by direct hand contact.

How do I defend against the flu if I can't get a flu shot?
The number one defense against the spread of the flu is hand-washing. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after contact with children and those who may be ill. It may seem excessive, but washing your hands many times a day is your best defense. If you are caring for someone with the flu, you may want to wear gloves and a mask during contact. Still, after removing and discarding the gloves, wash your hands!

What are the symptoms?
The typical influenza illness brings an abrupt onset of high fever, chills, a dry cough, headache, runny nose, sore throat and muscle and joint pain. Unlike other common respiratory infections, influenza can cause extreme fatigue that lasts several days to several weeks.

Is the flu serious?
Influenza can lead to hospitalization or even death, especially among the elderly. 500,000 people end up in hospital emergency rooms each year from the flu or flu complications. 5,000 Americans die annually from flu-related illness. Even without complications, the flu can make you miserable and mean many days away from work or other responsibilities.

Is the vaccine safe?
You cannot get influenza from the vaccine. The flu shot is very safe and generally has few side effects. There may be some soreness, redness or swelling where the shot is given. Other possible mild side effects include a headache and low-grade fever for a day after you receive the shot.

Who should NOT get the flu vaccine?

Women who are in their first trimester of pregnancy
People who are allergic to eggs or chicken feathers
People who are ill or have a fever at the time they wish to receive the flu vaccine
People who have had previous serious reactions to the flu vaccine (very rare)
People who have had Guillian Barre Syndrome