You should get a flu shot now, SC health officials say; here’s where you can go

As the temperature dips in York, Lancaster and Chester counties, it’s time to get a flu vaccination, say experts with the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

According to DHEC and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccinations are recommended annually for everyone six months or older. Those who are older than 50, pregnant or have chronic medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease are at an increased risk of complications from influenza, according to DHEC.

Even if patients were vaccinated last year, officials say they should get the vaccine again because the virus protection decreases over time and the vaccine is updated each year to keep up with changes.

Last week, two cases of flu were reported in both Lancaster and York counties, according to officials.

“The flu vaccine is still the best way to prevent serious illness this fall and winter,” said Dr. Teresa Foo, immunization medical consultant with DHEC. “You should get a flu vaccine before flu begins spreading in the community. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against flu. South Carolinians should act now to protect themselves and their families.”

Vaccines are typically available at local providers like doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, schools and workplaces. DHEC’s public health departments in each county will also offer flu vaccines by Oct. 16.

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness which causes symptoms including fever, cough, headache, tiredness, sore throat and nasal congestion.

Those who wish to get a flu vaccine at a DHEC health department clinic must do so by appointment by calling 1-800-868-0404. To find a non-DHEC flu vaccine provider near you, visit this link.

This story was originally published October 10, 2017 at 3:57 PM with the headline "You should get a flu shot now, SC health officials say; here’s where you can go."