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It’s Prime Time for the Flu Vaccine!

If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, it’s not too late. The peak of flu, or influenza, season is typically between December and March, but the bug can persist as late as May. The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each fall. Since October 1, VNA Nazareth Home Care has offered flu shots at a variety of clinics throughout Louisville and southern Indiana. We will continue to offer the vaccine while supplies last.

“With the flu vaccine, it’s better late than never,” said Gerrie Leppert, CEO of VNA Nazareth Home Care. “The flu can be detrimental to someone’s health, especially if they are at a high risk for complications. This includes people with diabetes and those with weakened immune systems.”

Who Should Get the Shot?

The flu shot is recommended for:

• Anyone wanting to lower their chances of getting the flu;
• adults and children 6 months and older (VNA Nazareth Home Care can vaccinate only those 18 years of age and older);
• anyone with a long-term health problem, such as heart, lung or kidney disease; asthma; diabetes; anemia or other blood disorders;
• anyone with a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy or long-term treatment with drugs such as steroids;
• residents of long-term care facilities who have chronic medical conditions;
• women who will be past the third month of pregnancy during the flu season; and
• health care workers, family members or anyone else coming in close contact with people at high risk for complications from the flu.

If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or a previous flu shot, or if you have a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome, you should talk with your physician before getting a flu shot. Do not get the shot if you have a fever.

Pneumonia Vaccine Also Offered

The pneumonia vaccine also will be offered at the VNA Nazareth Home Care clinics and can be given during the same visit. This pneumonia vaccine is recommended for adults age 65 and older and those with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

VNA Nazareth Home Care flu and pneumonia clinics serve those who are 18 and older. Medicare Part B covers these vaccinations, and VNA Nazareth Home Care will file the claim. All others pay $30 for the flu vaccine and $40 for the pneumonia vaccine.