‘Tis the season for flu shots

Flu season has officially begun in Los Angeles County, and the county’s Department of Public Health is urging that you get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Four cases have already been treated for strains covered by this year’s vaccine, all from West Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. These officially mark the start of a flu season that is likely to last until May. says public health director Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding.

“Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others,” he says, recommending that everyone six months of age or older receive a flu vaccine every year.

Fielding urges residents to contact their doctors for a vaccine. Alternatively, low-cost vaccines also are available throughout the county at supermarkets and pharmacies. (Click here and then look for the blue “Flu Care” box along the right margin.)

Starting next week, the county also will offer free vaccines to people who do not have health insurance. Click here to search for a county flu clinic by ZIP Code and click here for a list of upcoming flu clinics throughout the county, or call the county Information Line at 2-1-1. And for a lot more information, click here.

Posted 10/20/11