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Flu Facts What is the flu?
Influenza (the flu) is a respiratory infection
caused by viruses. Symptoms
include the abrupt onset of fever, chills, sore throat, dry cough, runny
nose, headache, muscle aches, severe weakness and fatigue. Illness may last several days,
though the cough and malaise can persist for a week or more. Complications may require hospitalization
and can include pneumonia and even death.
Tell me about the vaccine.
The flu vaccine is made from
inactivated viruses. You
should consult your physician before getting a flu vaccine if you have an
egg allergy, Thimerosal allergy, have an active neurological
disorder, or are currently
ill. The VNA
requires a physician prescription for pregnant women. Children ages
nine to seventeen require written parental consent.
What are the reactions to the flu vaccine?
The most common reaction to the flu vaccine is
soreness at the injection site. About 60% of those who receive the vaccine
will have a sore arm for a day or two. First time recipients may develop
fever, muscle aches or general feeling of illness or discomfort which
begins 6 - 12 hours after the vaccination and can last 1 - 2 days. This
occurs as the body builds the immune response. Rare side effects include
allergic reactions, including death.
How can I obtain the flu shot?
The Visiting Nurse Association of Porter County
will publish the Flu Shot Clinic schedule regularly to local radio, local
newspapers, and local cable television stations. Additional flu clinics
open to the public will be announced as flu vaccine deliveries are
received. Check the VNA Flu Clinic Locator below
for local flu shot clinic sites or call the VNA Flu Phone at 219-531-8088
for additional updates and information.
Flu shots will be administered on a first come, first served basis using a
number system at each location. The schedule remains subject to change
based on weather, and availability of flu vaccine, clinic sites and
volunteers.
$30 per flu shot or present
your Medicare Part B card
The VNA will not bill Medicare replacement policies such as
Medicare Advantage or Medicare HMO.
For more
information, call the Flu Phone at
219-531-8088 | 
