You can still get a free flu shot if you have not done so this year.
Free flu shots will be given out from 10 a.m. to noon today at the Foursquare Gospel Church in Pottsville, 2300 Mahantongo St.
Those 18 and older can receive the shots administered by the local department of health and supplied by the state Department of Health Division of Immunizations.
"It's really important to get the flu shot. It not only protects yourself, it is protecting others," said Kay Jones, executive director of Schuylkill County's VISION, Tuesday.
The flu clinic is probably the last free one in the county this year, Jones said.
Twelve previous clinics were held in cooperation between VISION, the Department of Health, Diakon Community Services for Seniors and the Interfaith Health Network of Schuylkill County, a coalition of 30 churches.
About 300 free flu shots were given out during three of the vaccine clinics, Jones said. Additional details were not available on the total number given to county residents.
Jones said they will have enough vaccines today and all are invited to get vaccinated. Flu shots are recommended for those 6 months and older. If you have any questions, call your doctor.
Flu activity can increase after Thanksgiving and may last from October through May, peaking in January or February.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report Dec. 13 estimated that 79,000 fewer hospitalizations occurred during the 2012-13 flu season because people were vaccinated.
More than 40,000 cases of influenza were reported to the state Department of Health last year. In all, 200 people died in Pennsylvania during the last flu season.
Locally, there have been 629 cases of the flu from Sept. 29 to Dec 14, state health data show. Statewide, the flu is classified as being sporadic. Butler County has the most positive cases at 57 cases as of Dec. 14, the latest data available. There have been nine reported in Schuylkill County. Nationally, there have been three pediatric deaths because of the flu.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, body aches, coughing, fatigue and chills.
To prevent the flu, wash your hands, get plenty of rest, avoid those who are sick and cover your mouth when you cough.
For more information, visit www.cdc.gov or www.health.state.pa.us.