FAQs
Listed on this page are Frequently Asked Questions about Flu Shots:
- What is Influenza?
- Who should get flu vaccinations?
- Why do I need to get a flu vaccine every year?
- Is the flu vaccine effective against all types of flu and cold viruses?
- What actions can I take to protect myself and my family against the flu this season?
- What is the cost for getting the flu shot?
For more information please contact:
Maria Skrede
Community Service Worker II
935 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243
Tel: (442) 265-1386
Fax: (442) 265-1471
Email: mariaskrede@co.imperial.ca.us
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year (source: CDC).
Flu vaccinations are recommended for all persons 6 months of age and over, including healthy adults. It is especially important to get a flu vaccine for the following groups:
- Healthcare workers
- Children 6 months to 5 years old and those 50 years or older.
- Anyone who lives with or cares for a child under 5 or an adult over 50
- Pregnant women
- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities
- Pregnant Women or individuals with a chronic condition such as asthma or diabetes, a compromised immune system or other condition that can compromise respiratory function
- Anyone who lives with or cares for a person with any of the health issues listed above
Flu viruses change from year to year. The immunity that is built up from having the flu caused by one flu virus strain doesn't always provide protection against newer strains of the flu.
The flu vaccine is your best protection against flu viruses. The flu vaccine does not provide protection against non-flu viruses that can cause colds and other respiratory illnesses. It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between a cold and the flu based on symptoms alone.
A yearly flu vaccine is recommended as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. In addition, you can take everyday preventive steps like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with the flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading influenza to others.
The cost for the flu shot at the Imperial County Public Health Department is $5.00. The cost of flu vaccinations at pharmacies, community clinics and with private providers varies. Please call ahead to confirm the cost for vaccination.
For more information regarding the flu clinics or the flu vaccine please contact the Imperial County Public Health Department’s Immunization Program at (442) 265-6777 or send an email to mariaskrede@co.imperial.ca.us. Information related to flu clinics is also available on Facebook and Twitter