In an effort to lead by example, Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment's directors and supervisors lined up for their flu shots. Getting an annual flu shot is important because it can protect you from getting sick with the flu or influenza. It is also important because a flu shot protects you from transmitting a serious disease that can be life threatening to others.

Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment and the entire state of Colorado kicked off the flu season this year with a plea for health care workers to be sure and get their flu shots. While everyone can benefit from an annual flu shot, it is especially important for health care workers as they come in contact throughout the day with individuals and families that may be unvaccinated and therefore at higher risk of getting sick with influenza. Flu season begins as early as October and can last as late as May each year. Once you receive your vaccination, it takes approximately two weeks for the antibodies to develop and provide protection against the influenza virus. Thus, it is best to get your flu shot as soon as possible to avoid getting sick with the flu. It is important to get an annual flu shot because the vaccine changes each year based on strains of the virus currently circulating.

Cheryl Hanson, RN, JCDHE Communicable Disease Control Program Coordinator said, "The best way to protect the residents and visitors to Jefferson County from the serious disease of influenza is to get as many people vaccinated as possible. A vaccinated Jefferson County is a healthier Jefferson County."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend October and November as the ideal months to receive your flu shot and help stop the spread of disease. JCDHE Immunization Clinics will provide flu shots to non-Medicare clients including children 6 months of age and older at its regularly scheduled clinics. The fee for JCDHE flu shots is $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for children.

• Call 303-232-6301 to schedule an appointment at JCDHE's Arvada or Lakewood immunization clinics.
• The Colorado Influenza and Pneumococcal Alert Coalition's (CIPAC) Web site provides an online flu-shot clinic locator
• For more information on influenza (human, avian or pandemic) call the Colorado Help Line for the Public: COHELP 1-877-462-2911