As of November 13th, 799 out of 1759 Grace Cottage patients aged 65 and older, or 45%, have received a flu shot. That’s not a bad percentage, in fact it’s respectable, but we wish it was even higher.
The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a yearly flu vaccine. People over age 65 or those with any chronic disease, such as diabetes or COPD, have a higher risk of contracting the flu and are especially urged to get the shot.
Those who are allergic to eggs or who have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome should consult with a physician before getting a flu shot.
Grace Cottage is administering the quad flu shot, which protects against four strains of the flu virus. The cost will be covered by most insurance. To make an appointment for a flu vaccination at Grace Cottage, call 802-365-4331. Same-day appointments are usually available.
For more information about flu shots or the flu in general, visit the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (www.cdc.gov), the Vermont Department of Health website (www.healthvermont.gov), or call the Vermont helpline at 2-1-1.
