Time for Your Flu Shot

Every flu season is different, but it typically occurs from late fall to early spring. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages everyone 6 months of age and older to get a flu vaccine.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza, so you should try to get the shot before the flu season starts. Hannibal Regional is hosting several drive-through flu shot clinics throughout the region.  Flu shots are also available at all HRMG locations.

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Flu Shot Clinics

Tips for Preventing and Treating the Flu

Know the signs of flu.

Suspect the flu if you suddenly feel sick with some or all of the following symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly, tend to be severe and last longer than cold symptoms. Usually, most symptoms are gone after five days, although cough and weakness may continue for a week or two.

Understand how flu is treated.

Flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. As a result, antibiotics — which fight infections caused by bacteria — do not help people with the flu get well.

The right treatment for the flu is rest and drinking lots of fluids. Over-the-counter medications may provide relief for symptoms such as a sore throat or congestion. Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Motrin (ibuprofen) can help with fever and pain. Antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate), usually are needed only if the patient is at high risk for serious flu-related complications. People at high risk include children younger than 5 years old; adults 65 and older; and pregnant women.

Know when to seek emergency care.

Most cases of flu, though miserable, resolve without complications. However, flu can develop into an emergency.

  • Adults should seek immediate medical care if they are having difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; sudden dizziness; confusion; severe or persistent vomiting; or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
  • In children, warning signs include fast breathing or trouble breathing; bluish skin color; not drinking enough fluids; not waking up or not interacting; being so irritable that the child does not want to be held; flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough; and fever with a rash.
  • For infants, get medical help right away if the infant is unable to eat; has trouble breathing; has no tears when crying; or has significantly fewer wet diapers than normal.

Prevent flu's spread

Prevent flu’s spread. If you are sick, stay away from others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. If you must leave home, for example to get medical care, wear a facemask if you have one and cover coughs and sneezes with the crook of your elbow or a tissue. Wash your hands often, both to prevent passing on the flu if you have it and to help you avoid catching it if you do not.