Although H1N1 influenza is no longer in the daily news, it is still a concern as there continued to be small outbreaks across the country. This year, the one of the components of the seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine is H1N1, so one immunization will protect you against both seasonal and H1N1 influenza.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months be vaccinated against flu. It is especially important to be vaccinated if you are working in a health care environment, are pregnant or plan to become pregant, or will have contact with pregnant women or newborn babies. 

Health Services is now offering flu vaccinations for $15,

                    Mondays - Thursdays from 9am - noon,

                    Fridays from 9 am - 3 pm. 

We may also provide flu shot clinics at our CCW, CTC and TPC locatoins.   Please watch this page, email, or follow us on Twitter for dates immunization will be available.

Flu vaccine will be available in two forms: the traditional "flu shot" and the nasal spray vaccine.  Both are safe and effective protection against influenza.

Please contact Health Services at 360-992-2264 for more information regarding influenza vaccinaton.

Here are some other steps you can take to stay healthy:

• Stay informed.  We will provide periodic updates to the community though email, flyers, and you can follow Health Services on Twitter@clarkhealthserv
  
  
• For more information on influenza the complications of influenza, or vaccine questions, check out Flu.gov.

• Everyone should take these everyday steps to protect your health and lessen the spread of this new virus:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If a tissue is not available, please cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

What to do if you experience flu-like illness

• Anyone who is sick with flu or flu-like symptoms should isolate themselves until they have been without a fever for 24 hours without the use of medications (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen).  This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further, therefore please stay home unless it is absolutely necessary.   Do drink frequent small amounts of water to stay hydrated.

• The majority of people with influenza will not need medical treatment.  Students or staff experiencing illness may telephone their health care provider or Health Services (992-2264) for advice.  It is preferable to contact the office by telephone to avoid exposing other students and staff.

If you have any questions please contact Health Services at 360-992-2264

Here's to a healthy start to a new school year!

Mary Deal, MSN, ARNP

Health Services Officer

Clark College