Mass flu shot at Family Medical Center raises awareness to get the flu vaccine

Weiser Memorial Hospital conducted a mass flu shot Tuesday to raise awareness and encourage Weiser citizens to also receive the vaccine.
 Seven employees, providers and community members received their flu shot at the same time in the lobby of the Family Medical Center. Individuals receiving their annual vaccine included Weiser Mayor Randy Hibberd, the hospital’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as well as doctors and other community members.
 “They’re trying to lead the community to get their flu shots,” said Layna Hafer, the hospital’s manager for community relations and marketing.
 Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documents seasonal flu information, including symptoms and prevention. A United States surveillance report is also available on the website, tracking flu activity and identifying hotspots.
 As of last week, Idaho has experienced minimal activity, as well as the majority of the country, according to the report. The report is updated regularly, and activity is expected to increase as the season progresses.
 Symptoms of the seasonal flu listed out by the CDC include fever, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue. Diagnosis and treatment for the flu vary, especially with the looming COVID-19 pandemic.
 Symptoms for the seasonal flu and COVID-19 are similar and can be difficult to distinguish. The easiest way to prevent the flu, according to the CDC, is to receive the flu vaccine every year. The vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious complications. Individuals from the age of six months and on are encouraged by the CDC to receive an annual flu shot.
 For the upcoming flu season, the CDC website said the vaccine was updated to better match the expected viruses to circulate the United States. Flu shots are recommended to be received in September and October to ensure maximum protection over the following months.
 If influenza is diagnosed, antiviral drugs can be used as treatment. The use of antiviral drugs can reduce sickness time as well as the chance for complications. To prevent the spread of the flu, the CDC encourages individuals to stay home and avoid contact with others until recovered. The CDC recommends prompt treatment for individuals who either have flu or suspected flu and are at high risk of serious flu complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
 “It’s along that time of the year and with everything else going on, we highly encourage everybody to get their flu shots,” said hospital CEO Steve Hale. “Every little bit helps to keep you safe and healthy this time of year.”