New Hanover County prepares for flu season with forums

Flu season is just around the corner. The New Hanover County Health Department, and the county school system, teamed up Tuesday night at Eaton Elementary School for the first of three flu awareness forums.

The health department handed out information about the flu shot. While flu season is not yet here, the vaccine is currently available at the health department, pharmacies and medical providers.

Meanwhile, the H1N1 vaccine is currently not available. It will likely be out in mid to late October. At the meeting, health care specialists spread the word about how not to spread germs.

“When you’re sick – stay at home. Keep yourself separated from people you know to be ill or sick. And again just take care of your health. Eat healthy and get as much exercise as you can,” said Eric Ireland New Hanover County Deputy Health Director.

And, of course, wash your hands after you cough or sneeze.

The second flu forum is at Gregory Tuesday night. The final flu forum will be held at Anderson Elementary on the 29th.

Both forums will run from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.