The Peninsula Health District is offering free seasonal flu vaccine for adults and children 3 years and older this Thursday, February 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or until supply runs out. The vaccinations are being held at the Peninsula Health Department, located at 416 J. Clyde Morris Blvd. Be sure to wear clothing that is loose around the arm so a public health nurse can administer the flu shot in the upper arm.  

Influenza, commonly called “the flu,” is a serious disease caused by the influenza virus that affects the respiratory tract. It is highly contagious and generally spreads from person-to-person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. 

The timing and duration of flu seasons vary; they can occur from early fall to late spring. Receiving an annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of becoming sick with the flu and spreading the virus to others. Center for Disease Control recommends everyone age 6 months or older be vaccinated against influenza each year. 

To minimize the risk of contracting or transmitting the flu, follow these simple steps:

• Get vaccinated
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds
• Cover your cough, either by using a disposable tissue or coughing into your sleeve, not your hand
• Stay at home when you are sick.

For more information, call the Peninsula Health District at 757-594-7300 or visit http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/peninsula/.