Health Department starts flu shots

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Flu season has arrived, and the New Hanover County Health Department is trying to do everything it can to make sure you’re ready. This year, the H1N1 strain is included in the regular shot, so there’s only need for one needle.

Harry Storms has struggled with respiratory problems his whole life, so he makes sure to get his flu shot every year.

“It’s really a good thing to do,” Storms said.

The health department’s Clinical Services Supervisor Betty Jo Bennett couldn’t agree more.

“You can also protect yourself by covering your cough and washing your hands, and that is helpful, but the easiest and most effective thing to do is get your flu shot,” she said.

The flu is not something mom Molly Nguyen wants her family to experience.

“I had the flu about ten years ago, and it was a horrible experience,” she said.

So she makes sure they all get vaccinated. It also comes in a mist form for those who are healthy enough and would rather not be stuck.

“It wasn’t too bad,” Spencer Nguyen said. “It tastes kinda weird.”

“We hope that this year, more people will come to get the vaccine, because they have a heightened awareness as a result of last year’s flu season, and they’ll see the benefits of coming and getting the flu shot soon,” Bennett said.

It’s important to get your flu shot before the peak of the season, which is from October to December, especially before the holidays, when you’re more apt to be around large groups of people.

Starting today, appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Call the New Hanover County Health Department at 798-6646 to schedule one.