Step one: getting the flu shot

The North Central District Health Department held its first flu vaccination clinic Friday.

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Story Published: Oct 11, 2008 at 6:00 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 2:42 AM PST

By Stephanie Smith

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LEWISTON - With all the other bad news these days, it is difficult to accept that it's also flu season.

The good news is, local flu shot clinics are underway.

"We know that in our area we have already had a few diagnosed cases," said North Central District Health Department Director Carol Moehrle. "So it is time. We have started, as well as the doctors’ offices and many of the pharmacies and grocery stores that offer vaccine too. There is a great abundance of vaccine this year, so anyone who wants a flu vaccine should be able to receive it."

About 100 people got their shot within the first three hours of the Lewiston clinic Friday. Asotin County Health District also held a clinic at Tri-State Memorial Hospital. Moehrle said the shot is about $25 depending where you go.

"The vaccine is similar to other years and it is covering the variety of flu's that is already being diagnosed in our community, which is a really good thing," said Moehrle. "We also know that the high risk people, those with chronic diseases, the elderly, always should (get a shot), but they are recommending children or anyone with exposure to children, so that we are not sharing that disease across our population. So protect yourself and the people in your home also."

If you missed Friday’s clinic, Moehrle said there will be other opportunities, but the sooner, the better.

"Our next flu clinic is October the 22nd, a Wednesday and then again October 24th, a Friday, here at the health department also," said Moehrle. "We also have them throughout our health district in the four other counties, Moscow, Orofino, Grangeville, Kamiah. So if you're interested you can call our 799-3100 number and we will give you our schedule of when they are being hosted at the health departments."

As always, prevention is the best medicine.

"Wash your hands, cover your cough and sneeze, and stay home if you are sick," said Moehrle. "...so that you aren't spreading it throughout the community or your coworkers at work. So the good prevention message is even if you are getting a flu shot remember to wash your hands."

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