Atlantic General Hospital Offers its Last Free Flu Clinic of Season

Just a month and a half into flu season, Atlantic General Hospital has provided free vaccine to more than 2,800 community members during its flu clinics.

While Maryland has seen only sporadic activity and no reported cases of influenza on the Eastern Shore, flu season extends through March. Anyone who has not received a flu shot this year is invited to attend Atlantic General Hospital’s final flu clinic of the season, which will take place on Saturday, November 18 in the Main Lobby. According to Michaelann Frate, Infection Control Coordinator at Atlantic General Hospital, 1000 vaccines are available.

Any person who is exposed to sources of influenza or is concerned about catching the flu virus should consider a flu shot. Individuals who fall into high risk categories and are more likely to develop complications from flu such as pneumonia and bronchitis are also urged to get vaccinated.

These risk groups include:

• people 65 years and older
• residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities
• adults or children with chronic pulmonary or cardiovascular conditions such as asthma
• people with metabolic diseases such as diabetes
• those with blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia
• individuals with impaired immunity
• children on long-term aspirin therapy

This highly contagious virus is spread by inhaling droplets coughed or sneezed by someone who is infected. Most symptoms emerge within 24 to 48 hours and are characterized by fever, chills, sore throat, cough and a headache.

For more information about Atlantic General’s free flu clinics, call the flu hotline at 410-641-9FLU (9358). The flu vaccine is made from eggs. If you are allergic to eggs, please contact your health care provider.