BERLIN—According to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent the flu is getting a flu vaccine
each year.

Atlantic General Hospital/Health System is again
providing flu shots free to the community. Individuals must be at least 13
years old to receive the vaccine at one of the free clinics.

This year the hospital and health system has scheduled
the clinics as follows:

Berlin, Hospital Outpatient Services Lobby:
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2-6 p.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2-6 p.m.

Snow Hill, Taylor Bank: Tuesday, Oct. 15,
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ocean
City, Holy Savior Catholic Church, 1705 Philadelphia
Avenue: Wednesday, Oct. 9, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ocean
Pines, Ocean Pines
Health Fair, Ocean Pines Community Center: Saturday, Oct. 5, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean
View, Del., Office of
Dr. Barbara Socha, 96 Atlantic Avenue: Saturday, Oct.12, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (must
be at least 18 years old to receive the vaccine at this clinic)

Additional clinics will be scheduled as
vaccine supplies are received.

 Influenza
and complications resulting from the virus kill an estimated 20,000 people each
year, according to the CDC. Although rates of influenza vaccinations have
increased in recent years, health surveys show that less than half of the
high-risk population receives a yearly vaccine.

Influenza, or flu, is a highly contagious virus spread
by inhaling droplets from an infected individual’s cough or sneeze. Most
symptoms emerge within 24 to 48 hours and are characterized by fever, chills,
sore throat, cough and headache. Just one infected person can unknowingly pass
on the flu to family members and loved ones because the virus can be
transmitted 24 hours before symptoms appear.

Those at an increased risk for influenza
related complications include persons 65 years and older; nursing home
residents and those in other chronic care facilities; adults and children with
chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, including
children with asthma; people with metabolic diseases such as diabetes; and those
with blood diseases like sickle cell anemia, or impaired immunity. 

Children and teenagers on long-term aspirin therapy
and anyone working or living with someone in a high-risk category should get a
flu shot every year.

The vaccine is usually given before the flu season.
Individuals can receive the vaccine from their health care providers or at one
of the free immunization clinics offered provided by Atlantic General Hospital
and the Atlantic General Health System. 

Since flu viruses mutate often, vaccines should be
repeated each year. The vaccine is made from eggs. If you are allergic to eggs,
consult with your health care provider.

Hospital officials urge you to schedule an appointment
with your primary care provider to receive your flu shot. For more information on the
Atlantic General Hospital Free Flu Shot Clinics, contact Atlantic General Hospital
at 410-641-9FLU (9358).