Influenza season is on the horizon, and Washington County Public Health encourages people to get their annual flu shot now rather than later.

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there were 45,185 deaths attributed to influenza last year. 

There are a multitude of locations in Washington County that can administer flu shots. 

People are able to get shots at Hy-Vee, Wal-Mart, Beans, and all other pharmacies in the county. Additionally, they can get them at all the health care providers, and at Washington County Public Health. 

According to Iowa Health and Human Services, flu season typically peaks in February, and it takes two or three weeks for flu shots to take effect in a person’s immune system. Common symptoms of flu are a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, cough and or sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache or body aches, chills, and fatigue. 

Washington County Public Health offers immunizations with an appointment. More information can be found on their website.