Flu season is coming and getting vaccinated is more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic.
Minnesota influenza outbreaks typically occur between December through April. Antibodies develop about two weeks after getting the vaccine. For the elderly and those with immuno-compromising diseases, the immune system is often slower to respond. Flu shots or other vaccines may not work as well or protect against illness as long as expected.
Riverwood Healthcare Center will offer flu clinics for the public by appointment at all three of its locations at these times:
Aitkin/Riverwood Pharmacy at Paulbeck’s County Market: Oct. 5, 12 & 26, 9 am-3 pm
Garrison Clinic: Oct. 7 & 14, 9 am-12 pm
McGregor Clinic: Oct. 6, 13 & 27, 9 am-3 pm
To make an appointment, call Riverwood’s appointments line at 218-927-2157. The flu clinics schedule is also posted at www.RiverwoodHealthcare.org When you call, have your health insurance card or information available.
“While the flu vaccine does not always protect us from getting influenza, research shows that receiving a flu vaccine each year can reduce the risk of hospitalizations, pneumonia, and death,” said Jeanine LeBlanc, infection preventionist. “At Riverwood, we are committed to keeping our community safe and we urge everyone to get flu shots, especially now during the coronavirus pandemic.”
For more information on flu symptoms, prevention and treatment, go to the Minnesota Department of Health at https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/flu/basics/index.html