Flu shots available next week

Free flu immunizations are being offered for all active and retired employees enrolled in a state-sponsored health plan. The Jackson County Health Department will administer the immunizations during two days at the Student Recreation Center Alumni Lounge. The Department of Central Management Services is providing the free flu shots.

The schedule is:

• Tuesday, Nov. 29 -- 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Last names beginning A-M.
• Wednesday, Nov. 30 -- 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Last names beginning N-Z.

Employees are required to present verification of employment (University ID) or a state health insurance card in order to receive the free immunization. Retirees will be required to provide their state health insurance card and two types of identification. For health department billing purposes, Medicare cards of retirees who have Medicare coverage will be photocopied.

Dependents may receive immunizations by paying a $28 fee. Cost for children is $12. Pneumonia vaccines are also available at a cost of $37 per dose.

Graduate assistants and teaching assistants may receive immunizations through the Student Health Service. Please contact them to schedule an appointment.

If you cannot make any of the above times, you may go to the Jackson County Health Department to receive your free immunization. For more information call their office at 618/684-3143, ext. 517. Any other questions may be directed to SIUC's Human Resource Benefits Office at 618/453-6668.

There are also several helpful tips for preventing the flu or coping with it once you contract the illness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, illnesses such as the flu (influenza) and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu and colds usually spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

How to Help Stop the Spread of Germs

Take care to:

• Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough
• Clean your hands often
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Stay home when you are sick and check with a health care provider when needed
• Practice other good health habits.

When you are sick or have flu symptoms, stay home, get plenty of rest, and check with a health care provider as needed. Remember: Keeping your distance from others may protect them from getting sick. Common symptoms of the flu include:

• fever (usually high)
• headache
• extreme tiredness
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle aches, and
• nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, (much more common among children than adults).