Health officials urge West Virginia residents to get a flu shot

Officials with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources are reminding residents to take steps to prepare for the upcoming flu season. In a newly launched public service announcement, Cabinet Secretary Karen L. Bowling and Dr. Rahul Gupta, Bureau for Public Health Commissioner and State Health Officer, urge West Virginians to get a flu shot to help prevent the spread of the virus.
The 60-second video features Bowling and Gupta discussing the importance of the vaccine for everyone, especially those at high risk for flu complications.  The public service announcement was filmed at Saint Francis First Urgent Care and Wellness Center in Charleston, West Virginia, where Secretary Bowling received her flu shot.
“We all need to make a commitment to do everything we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the flu this season,” said Bowling. “Now is the opportune time to consider basic preventive measures such as the flu vaccine, and I hope this public service announcement encourages someone to take action today.”
Gupta underscores the importance of not waiting until the middle of the flu season to get a shot.
“The flu shot not only helps protect you and your family, but also residents among our most vulnerable population,  including young children, pregnant women, adults 65 years and older, as well as those with chronic health conditions,” said Gupta.
In addition to getting a flu shot, Gupta said there are several preventive steps you can take to fight the flu:
•    Wash your hands frequently, cover your cough and sneeze into your sleeve if you do not have a tissue.
•    Wipe down frequently touched surfaces with a disinfectant.
•    Stay home when you are sick.
Flu symptoms include quick onset of fever, body aches, extreme tiredness and dry cough. Persons who may be suffering from influenza-like symptoms should see a medical provider right away. For more information about the flu, please visit www.dide.wv.gov and click on “Influenza.”