Although COVID-19 has been the virus on everyone’s mind these past two years,  it is important to remember that the Influenza virus is still circulating throughout the area. The fall and winter seasons are typically flu season, with flu activity peaking from December to February; however, active flu cases can still occur throughout the rest of the year. Lori Notz, an Infection Prevention RN with Bellin Health systems, explains why an influenza vaccination benefits you and those around you.

The Influenza vaccine is available to everyone that is six months or older. You can receive the vaccine anywhere that has Bellin primary care and at their community sites that include fast care locations and their community clinic in Ashwaubenon. The flu vaccine is free of charge to all within the Bellin Health systems. Other places to receive the flu shot in Door and Kewaunee counties include Door County Medical Center, Prevea Health, Door and Kewaunee Public Health and some CVS and Walgreens locations. Notz urges you to practice safe responses when you are not feeling well, whether you have the vaccine or not. That includes staying home when you are sick, washing your hands regularly, and practicing social distancing and masking if you are not feeling well.