VERO BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 27, 2005) – As the community faces the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma, another flu season is quickly approaching and the risk for widespread illness may be even greater this year.
“Even though the more severe damage is to our south, Hurricane Wilma was still stressful for residents in our area. As a result, immune systems can be weakened and people can become vulnerable to diseases like influenza. It’s important that residents focus on staying healthy during these stressful times,” said Allison Downing, Health Services manager with the Visiting Nurse Association.
Influenza is a highly contagious disease that often makes people sick enough to keep them in bed for several days. But it can also lead to more serious illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. People with compromised immune systems are likely to suffer more serious effects because of the flu virus. VNA urges seniors, people with chronic health conditions and other individuals who are at risk for flu related complications to get immunized early.
Public clinic locations include:
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South Mainland Library, 7921 Ron Beatty Blvd., Micco, Oct. 31, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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The Outlets at Vero Beach, 1872 94th Drive, Vero Beach, Oct. 31, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Nov. 7, 17, 18, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Perkins Medical Supply, 4005 20th St., Vero Beach, Nov. 2, 2-4 p.m.
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Christi's Fitness, 1250 Old Dixie Highway, Vero Beach, Nov. 3, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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Vero Beach Book Center, 2145 Indian River Blvd, Vero Beach, Nov. 3, 3-5 p.m.
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North Indian River Library, 1001 Sebastian Blvd., Sebastian, Nov. 4, 1-4 p.m.
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Osceola Pharmacy, 1635 14th Ave., Vero Beach, Nov. 8, 9 a.m. – noon
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Clerk of the Court, 200 16th Ave., Vero Beach, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. – noon
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Marine Bank, 571 Beachland Blvd, Vero Beach, Nov. 9 from 2-4 p.m.
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The Club at Spine and Sport Institute, 1435 36th St., Vero Beach, Nov. 14, 9-11 a.m.
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Perkins Medical Supply, 3717 10th Court, Vero Beach, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. – noon
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Longevity Spa, 650 12th St., Vero Beach, Nov. 16, 2-4 p.m.
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First United Methodist Church, 1750 20th St., Vero Beach, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
“Like a hurricane, an unexpected flu outbreak can be very damaging to a community. With everything that has already been lost, even healthy people should seriously consider getting vaccinated – especially those who can’t afford to lose any more time at work or school or spend money because their families are sick,” said Downing.
The VNA administers vaccinations to anyone 18 and older; flu vaccines are $31 per dose; pneumonia vaccines are $44 per dose. There is no charge for people who present a Medicare or Health First HMO Medicare card at time of immunization. VNA Shoo the Flu vaccination clinics will also be held at other locations in Indian River County through December. For the most up-to-date VNA flu clinic schedule, please visit our calendar of events.
