Kelly Invites Community Members to Flu Shot Clinic

CHICAGO – State Rep. Michael J. Kelly, D-Chicago, is holding a Flu Shot Clinic in partnership with Alderman Samantha Nugent, and the Salvation Army at Mayfair Community Church, 5020 N. Pulaski Rd. in Chicago. The event will be held between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19.

“Getting up-to-date flu shots each year is the best way to protect yourself and your family—children and older adults in particular—against a potentially serious illness,” Kelly said. “Even if the flu doesn’t make someone dangerously ill, it can put them out of work or school and make them unable to help around the home.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), flu, also known as influenza, is a viral infection that, while some of its symptoms resemble those of a common cold, is distinguished by:

• Characteristic high fevers of up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit that last up to 4 days,
• Unusual weakness or fatigue that can last up to three weeks,
• Headaches and body aches which are often severe, and
• Complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, which can become severe or even life-threatening.

Flu cannot be cured or prevented from spreading with antibiotics, because it is a viral illness. Handwashing helps to slow or prevent the spread of flu, but a yearly vaccination is the best way to lower your chances of contracting the flu. IDPH recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone aged six months and older. More information about flu vaccines is available from the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Participants are asked to register in advance at this link.

“Too many people don’t get their flu vaccine because they don’t understand the benefits or because they’ve heard misinformation about vaccines,” Kelly said. “The flu shot is proven to work and helps protect families during flu season. I hope to see you and your family at this event.”