'tis the season to get flu shots

Flu: so far so good, but for how long?
via http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/

This is a public service reminder that the ideal time to get a flu shot is as soon as the vaccines are released (which is now).

The CDC's Flu Page tells us that takes about 2 weeks to develop enough antibodies to enjoy the vaccine's full benefit. January and February are typically the peak time for the flu but infections can occur from fall to spring.

We are only seeing sporadic reports in Georgia so far, which makes this the perfect time to get immunized:

Test your Flu IQ!

1) to enjoy the longest protection from the flu (the whole season vs. parts of it). The chance that you will come in contact with the flu grows as the season progresses. People can be contagious before they show symptoms. When you encounter the Flu Class of 2014, and you will, you want your antibodies to be ready to rumble!

2) to keep the holiday season jolly and the new year happy: get immunized now before things get busy and you forget. If you hate needles, there's a nasal spray option.

3) to protect others. Vaccination can help you jinx the flu's nefarious plan to use and abuse you while turning you into a juicy virus factory. Take that, influenza!

Find a flu shot provider near you by typing your zip code in the widget to the left. This handy article explores the cost of flu shot costs and finds them ranging from $14.99 to $31.99 at stores such as Costco, Walmart, and Kroger and pharmacies such as Walgreens, CVS and RiteAid.

The DeKalb County Board of Health offers flu shots for $30. They are located at 440 Winn Way, and the clinic is open Monday-Frirday 8:15-11am and 1-4pm. Walk-ins are welcome.