The 2023 flu season has begun and the number of cases is steadily rising, both across the country and in Eastern Kentucky. No matter their location, health officials are united in saying the best way to avoid getting sick this winter is to take preventive measures.
“The best way to prepare for flu season is to get your vaccine,” said PMC Director of Infection and Prevention Nina Reynolds. “I think a lot of people don’t realize you can get your flu shot anytime during the season and it is never too late. However, keep in mind it takes a couple of weeks for your antibodies to kick in.”
During the holiday season, which begins with Thanksgiving and extends through the first of the year, people generally attend multiple gatherings with work, friends and family. In addition, during colder weather, these gatherings are generally indoors, which increases the risk of contracting the flu or other respiratory viruses.
Health officials say, other than vaccinations, good hand hygiene is the most effective way to avoid the transmission of viruses. Many times, someone who is sick will sneeze or cough into their hand, then touch a nearby object or surface. Someone who then unknowingly touches that surface before touching their eye, nose or mouth, can easily become sick.
“Hands are a vehicle we use to move things,” explained Reynolds. “But we also need to be mindful that our hands can also very easily be used to transmit viruses from one person to another without realizing it. I cannot express enough how important good hand hygiene is.”
Pikeville Medical Center offers flu vaccinations at the PMC Outpatient Pharmacy and all PMC Primary Care Provider locations. Pediatric patients can also receive a flu shot at the PMC Urgent Care and Family Wellness Center on Cassady Boulevard in Pikeville. For a list of PMC Primary Care Providers and their locations, visit www.pikevillehospital.org. For more information on the types of vaccinations given at the PMC Outpatient Pharmacy and when they are offered, call 606-218-3576.
