The Gordon County Health Department will conduct a one-day influenza-immunization clinic Tuesday, October 30, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the health department, 310 North River Street, Calhoun. No appointment is necessary.

“In addition to our special, one-day flu-shot clinic, we will continue to offer influenza immunizations every day during normal business hours. Folks may call and schedule an appointment or simply walk in,” said health department Nurse Manager Lisa Crowder. “For those with homebound family or loved ones, we can also arrange to administer influenza immunizations at home. People should call the health department at 706- 624-1444 to make these arrangements.”

Cost for the influenza immunization is $20. Cash, check, credit cards, Medicare, Medicaid, PeachCare, Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and state employee United Healthcare and CIGNA insurance will be accepted.

“It’s not too soon to get the flu vaccine and be protected throughout this flu season,” said Crowder. “A yearly flu vaccination now is recommended for virtually everyone, except babies younger than 6 months and people with severe allergies to the eggs used to make vaccine.” Seasonal flu can cause mild to severe illness -- and even death, Crowder said. “Some people, such as older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease are at high risk for serious flu complications.”

“Remember, you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick,” Crowder said. “Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Some people, especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an even longer time.”

Flu symptoms include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, a dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms are also common, especially in children. Besides getting the flu vaccine, there are other actions that protect against the flu: Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based rub if soap and water aren’t available. People who are sick with flu-like illness should stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine

For more information about the seasonal flu vaccine, contact the Gordon County Health Department at 706- 624-1444 or go to www.cdc.gov.