Influenza season is fast approaching, and Lane County health officials are advising certain groups of people to get vaccinated this month to prevent contracting the virus. “Flu season hasn’t really started yet,” said Anne Mattson, acting director of nursing at the University Health Center. “But those faculty, students and spouses at risk can get vaccinated.”
Students in high-risk groups can also get shots through Lane County health clinics in October. This includes adults with chronic diseases, immune system problems and pregnant women who are in their second or third trimester.
Mattson said though the health center hasn’t seen patients with the flu yet, students will know they have it when they come down with a fever, headaches and have general fatigue.
Lane County officials don’t believe there will be a repeat of last year’s flu shot cancellations because of a vaccine shortage.
“We are not anticipating shortages of vaccines here locally,” said Sarah Hendrickson, a public health nurse for Lane County.
The county decided to buy the vaccine from different pharmaceutical companies to avoid a shortage this fall, and Dotson said the county staggered its order so the county can immediately vaccinate those who are high-risk.
“In order to get the vaccine here and on time, we ordered from a different group,” Pat Dotson said, the county’s public health senior stores clerk. “Since their price is higher, then we have to charge more for shots.” Flu shots will increase from $10 to $15 this fall at county clinics. The first clinic for the general public is scheduled for Nov. 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wheeler Pavilion at the Lane County Fairgrounds. The University Health Center is charging $6 for flu shots for students who are not high-risk beginning Nov. 1.