WOONSOCKET – As temperatures drop outside, the potential for fever temperatures caused by cold and flu symptoms rises. Getting a flu shot early in the season can prevent a miserable episode of aches, chills and sore throat.
“No one wants to be home sick with the flu and it’s easy to prevent that from happening. The benefits of protecting yourself and those you come in contact with far outweigh the inconvenience of getting the shot,” stated Shelly Selland, CNP, provider at Horizon’s Whiting Memorial Community Health Center.
The flu shot is especially encouraged for young children, pregnant women, the elderly and their caretakers since these groups are more vulnerable. The Center for Disease Control recommends children between the ages of six months and five years get a flu vaccine annually.  Children under the age of nine receiving a flu vaccine for the first time should receive two doses in the first year.
Horizon Health Care is offering flu shots at all of its Community Health Centers, including Whiting Memorial Community Health Center. The cost is $25 and if eligible, the sliding fee discount applies.
Selland added, “Viruses are more likely to take hold and hang on if the body lacks the proper nutrition and rest that keeps the immune system strong.  Covering your cough, washing your hands regularly, drinking plenty of water and getting eight hours of sleep are good habits to form to stay healthy.”
To make an appointment for your flu shot, call 796-4433. Walk-ins are also welcomed.
For over 35 years, Horizon Health Care, Inc. has been providing personalized, affordable, high-quality medical, dental and mental health care through a rural, community-based network in South Dakota. Horizon is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that serves the medical, dental and mental health care needs of South Dakotans in rural, medically underserved areas through 75,000 patient visits annually in 17 community health centers in: Bryant, DeSmet, Howard, Huron, Lake Preston, Martin, Mission, Plankinton, Springfield, Wessington Springs, White River and Woonsocket. For more information please visit www.horizonhealthcare.org.