New flu vaccines are available
Clinics offer extended hours

Flu vaccines have arrived in Cherokee County. The Cherokee County Texas Health Department will provide flu (influenza) vaccinations for adults and children over sixmonths old from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays at its clinics located at 593 N. Main in Rusk and 510 E. Commerce Street in Jacksonville.

The vaccination costs $7 for children, over six months to 17; and $20 for persons over age 17.

Children younger than six months of age are too young to be vaccinated.

Vaccines are given on a first come first served basis. Maps to each location are available at www.cchdtexas.org.

For businesses and/or organizations to schedule an on-site clinic at their location call Pam Davis at (903)586- 6191 or email pdavis@texashan. org.

"The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year," Mrs. Davis said.

Every year in the United States, an average of five-20 percent of the population gets the flu.

More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and approximately 36,000 people die.

Some people, such as older people, young children and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.

October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but getting vaccinated in December or even later can still be beneficial since most influenza activity occurs in January or later in most years. Though it varies, flu season can last as late as May.