This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Flu Season in Forsyth County

How to stay free from the flu this holiday season.

The holiday season is in full swing, but Christmas isn't the only thing in the air. The flu season is also upon us.

"There is plenty of vaccine to go around this year, unlike prior years when we have experienced delays or shortages," said Nancy Baymiller, RN and Area Nurse Manager for the . "The Forsyth County Health Department typically sees around 10% of the county population in a year. In 2009, out of a reported 2008 population of 168,060, the health department served 16,776 people. We typically give between 2,500 and 3,000 seasonal flu vaccinations every year. While many people come in for vaccination October 1st, others will wait until the weather turns cold. We have already given 2,363 flu vaccinations to date, with many people still coming in for vaccination daily."

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the 2010-2011 flu vaccines protects against three influenza viruses, the 2009 H1N1 virus, an H3N2 virus and an influenza B virus. Baymiller warns, "Right now both flu viruses (H3N2 "seasonal" and H1N1) are circulating. Flu activity is high in Georgia right now, and this is not unusual, because flu typically occurs between October and May every year, and generally peaks in January or February."

Find out what's happening in Cummingwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Baymiller encourages everyone to get vaccinated for the flu every year. "It's never too late." The vaccine is available to Forsyth County residents for a cost of $25. The health department can also bill Medicare, Cigna, State Health Plans and United Health Care. Please call or check the for dates and times the vaccination is offered. In addition, vaccines can be obtained from local area pharmacies like , , and .

While getting vaccinated is the most important step in preventing the flu there are additional measures that can be taken to minimize exposure to the influenza virus. The CDC recommends the following precautions; hand washing with warm soap and water. If soap and water are not available use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs can easily enter the body through these openings. Stay away from sick people and avoid contact with people if you are sick. The rule is that your fever has to be gone for at least 24 hours without using fever reducing medications.

Find out what's happening in Cummingwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As you travel this holiday season be sure to spread plenty of holiday cheer, but take care not to spread nasty flu viruses. 

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?