9-12-2020 2:03am

When Should People Get A Flu Shot?

Rick Amburgey Neighbor

As he was responding to a question, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Tuesday that he asked a doctor when people should get a flu shot and the answer was now. In addition, he said he had talked to people in the medical community and they emphasized how important it is to get a flu shot.

DeWine said that doctor offices and clinics are very careful. He also said that he went into a medical facility the other day and everyone who was working there was wearing a face mask and a face shield.

During Thursday’s briefing, DeWine, his wife Fran, and Lt. Gov. John Husted were given flu shots. He said the Center For Disease Control advices anyone over six month old to get vaccinated against the flu. "Our youngest and oldest Ohioans, those who are pregnant, those in long-term care facilities, and those with chronic health conditions may be especially susceptible to severe illness or complications from the flu,” he said.

DeWine said people who are 65 years are older are at the highest risk for flu-related death. “For adults at this age, they should get a high dose,” he said. DeWine said those who are elderly and need help getting to their physician can contact the Area Agency On Aging by calling 866-243-5678. They can get access to transportation if needed.

DeWine said children younger than five, especially those younger than two, are high-risk for developing flu-related complications. He said some children between six months and eight years should get two doses of the vaccine. “This is the case for children of this age who are being vaccinated for the first time and for those who have previously only gotten one dose of vaccine,” he said, adding that parents should talk to their pediatrician to determine if their child needs two doses.

Ohioans that don’t have a primary healthcare provider can go to vaccinefinder.org to find local pharmacies and healthcare facilities that are offering flu shots.

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