It’s time to roll up your sleeve and arm yourself against the seasonal flu. Getting vaccinated each year is one of the best ways you can avoid catching or spreading the virus. The Effingham County Health Department will offer seasonal flu shot clinics from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 4 and Sept. 18. Appointments are required.

“The flu is highly infectious and causes significant illness and hospitalizations every year,” said Cindy Grovenstein, Effingham County Health Department Nurse Manager. “It’s very important to get vaccinated to protect yourself and those around you.”

The flu can cause high fever, muscle aches, fatigue and coughing. The best way to prevent getting or spreading the virus is to get vaccinated. The flu shot is especially important for people who are at high risk for flu complications, including :

• Children ages 6 months to five years

•  Pregnant women

•  Those 50 and older

•  People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions

•  People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

•  People who live with or work with those at high risk for flu complications

The upcoming flu clinics are open to the public.

This year’s flu season could hit with a vengeance, so don’t wait. Get vaccinated now.

To schedule an appointment for an upcoming flu clinic, please call the Health Department at 754-6484.