The Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center is encouraging residents to get a flu vaccine this fall. For the 2015-2016 flu season, two deaths and 31 intensive care unit admissions were associated with complications brought on by influenza in Lake County.

"Those six months of age or older should get a flu vaccine annually, especially children younger than 5, adults 65 years of age and older, and those with conditions such as asthma or diabetes,” said Mark Pfister, the Health Department’s Interim Executive Director. “Influenza is a respiratory illness that is highly contagious and it can take a severe toll on an individual’s health, affecting work, school or recreational opportunities. A flu vaccine not only protects you, but also those around you.”

People who have the flu can spread the virus by coughing or sneezing. Droplets released when a sick person coughs, sneezes, or talks can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. The droplets can also be inhaled into the lungs. People may also catch the flu by touching their mouth or nose after touching something with the virus on it, such as doorknobs, tables, or an infected person’s dirty hand.