Mussman Encourages Residents to Get Flu Shot

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – To help protect families from illness this cold and flu season, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, is encouraging residents to get their yearly flu shot.

“As hospitals deal with capacity issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever that we take steps to stay healthy and reduce stress on our health care system,” said Mussman. “While we are still waiting on a vaccine to protect our families from coronavirus, it is important that we take advantage of the safe, accessible flu shot available to us to help prevent serious illness.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), flu season typically lasts from October to May every year. IDPH recommends that every person aged six months and older receive a flu vaccine in order to prevent an influenza virus infection. Symptoms of the flu may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, extreme fatigue, headaches and muscle aches. Residents can find local flu vaccine providers from Vaccine Finder at vaccinefinder.org. In addition to receiving a flu shot, IDPH also recommends performing the 3 C’s on a day-to-day basis to fight the flu:

• Clean: Clean your hands frequently by washing your hands with soap and warm water.
• Cover: Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, then immediately wash your hands.
• Contain: Contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.

IDPH also warns against common misconceptions about flu shots and the flu vaccine. Common misconceptions include that the flu vaccine makes someone sick, which has been scientifically disproven, and that people only need to get a flu shot once. Due to rapid changes in influenza viruses, medical professionals encourage getting an annual flu shot.

“By getting our flu shots and continuing to follow the latest virus-reduction recommendations including staying home as much as possible, wearing a mask when around others and practicing physical distancing, we can protect our families from getting sick this winter,” said Mussman. “I encourage all residents that are able to do their part in keeping our community safe by getting their flu shot this year.”

Mussman represents the 56th District, which contains portions of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Roselle, Rolling Meadows and Palatine.