Every year thousands of Americans suffer the body aches, fever, chills, sore throat and cough associated with influenza.

People of any age can catch it, and are only ill for a few days. However, the effects on “high risk” individuals can be much more serious. Influenza causes thousands of deaths yearly, with the elderly making up a large portion of those cases.

The flu virus is transmitted in droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Sometimes the mere act of speaking can release the virus-containing droplets into the atmosphere. Once airborne, these tiny droplets can be inhaled into the respiratory system of another individual. Once there, they begin to reproduce.

Those considered to be at high risk are:

” 65 or older.

” Those who suffer from a chronic health condition or lung disease such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, asthma and emphysema.

” Those with weakened immune systems due to treatment with drugs such as long-term steroids, cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system.

” Residents of long term care facilities housing persons with chronic medical conditions.

” Physicians, nurses or anyone else coming in close contact with persons considered to be at risk.

” Women who will be more than three months pregnant during the influenza season.

Others who should consider getting influenza vaccine include:

” People who provide essential community services.

” Travelers to the Southern Hemisphere between April and September, or those traveling to the tropics any time.

” Students and staff at schools and colleges, to prevent outbreaks.

” Anyone who wants to reduce their chance of catching.

The viruses that cause influenza change often. For this reason, the vaccine is updated each year by replacing at least one of the vaccine virus strains with a newer one. This does not guarantee that you will not contract influenza from a virus not covered by the vaccine, but those who do get influenza despite receiving the vaccine usually have milder cases than those who were not vacinated.

Protection develops in one to two weeks after the shot and may last up to a year. In order to stay protected, you must receive a new shot each year.

The best time to receive the vaccine is just before flu season (Oct. 1 - Nov. 15).

The Fayette County Health Department will offer these vaccines on a walk-in basis Sept. 27 - Oct 1. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost of the vaccine is $10 and is covered by Medicare Part B, but not by Medicare HMO.

Further changes in the Medicare system have resulted in the department not being able to bill for Pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine. Therefore: if you have HMO-type Medicare (flu vaccine); or if you are planning to receive a vaccination for pneumonia, be aware that there will be a $10 charge to the client for each shot. Bring your Medicare card with you.

Clients must be 18 or older to receive the vaccination; or must otherwise be accompanied by a parent.

After Oct. 1, appointments are preferred, but not mandatory for flu shots. For information phone the Fayette County Health Department at 770-461-1178, ext. 416.