GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Two Brown County officials are rolling up their sleeves to remind residents to get their flu shots this fall.
At a news conference Monday, Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach and Public Health Officer Anna Nick received their annual flu vaccinations — and they are urging the community to do the same.
“I think we all know why it’s important for our children, to make sure that they have it. The elderly, family members. It’s really important because of the impacts,” Streckenback said.
According to Brown County Public Health, receiving the flu shot doesn’t eliminate your chance of contracting influenza. However, it does make symptoms less severe and reduces flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.
Public health officials say getting the flu vaccine each year is necessary because the virus mutates over time. Vaccinations are especially important for people at a higher risk for serious complications, including:
- Pregnant people
- Young children
- People 65 years and older, especially those living in group settings
- People with certain medical conditions, like asthma or heart disease
Nick encouraged all community members to get their flu shots, saying it’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against the flu to develop in the body, making October a great time to get vaccinated before we head into the winter months.
In addition to influenza, Brown County Public Health Nurse Julie Schoenrock said the public should take precautions to prevent other common respiratory illnesses, as well.
“As we enter this fall respiratory season, it includes the flu, COVID, RSV and even the common cold. So when you have those symptoms, you have to watch out for what it is,”Schoenrock said.
BCPH is hosting two upcoming flu clinics at the Brown County Central Library, located on Pine Street in Green Bay. Children ages six months through 18 years can receive a free flu vaccine. The clinics will take place Oct. 15 and Oct. 23 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Pharmacies and other health providers also offer flu, COVID and RSV vaccines. Contact your doctor or medical providers for more information.
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