Flu Vaccine Encouraged As Flu Season Gets Underway

Flu season is here and local health professionals say it’s time to get the flu shot.

Cookeville Regional Medical Center Infection control Nurse Stephanie Etter said the exact strain of flu is not known at this time, but getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and the community.

“It may not be a perfect match, but it will be at least a partial match,” Etter said. “That means if you get the flu vaccine and it’s not a perfect match you will at least have partial protection and won’t be sick as long if you have the vaccine.”

Those most vulnerable to the flu include those with pre-existing conditions, the elderly, and small children.

People who have had cancer or anything that could lower their immune system should ask before receiving the flu vaccine, Etter said.

Etter also said the CDC has recommended that folks should not utilize the flu mist this year.