22 N. Georgia Ave.  Suite 300  .  Mason City, IA 50401  .  Phone: 641-421-9300  .  Toll Free: 1-888-264-2581  .  Fax: 641-421-9350

 

 
 Disease Prevention

Influenza and Pneumonia    

Get Your Flu Vaccine at
Public Health!

It's not too late!

Clinic Hours

What is Influenza? Seasonal influenza, also called the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each fall. Every year in the United States, on average:

  •  5-20% of the population gets the flu
  •  More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications and
  •  About 36,000 people die from flu every year

Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.

Symptoms of Flu include:

  •  Fever (usually high)
  •  Headache
  •  Extreme tiredness
  •  Dry cough
  •  Sore throat, runny or stuffy nose
  •  Muscle aches
  •  Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults

Some people develop more serious medical complications, such as pneumonia.

Vaccine Information Sheet /CDC web site

Should you get a flu shot or the nasal mist? Check our comparison chart

Influenza Nasal Mist (Live, Intranasal) Vaccine Information - CDC Website

Influenza Vaccine Fact Sheet

Pneumonia Vaccine Information Sheet / CDC

Influenza - Pertussis - the Common Cold: How do you tell the difference?
Review this comparison chart from the Iowa Department of Public Health.     

Cerro Gordo County passed first influenza ordinance - When flu vaccine was in short supply in 2000, Public Health officials knew that something had to be done in order to protect those who were at highest risk of getting influenza. The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health adopted the first Influenza Preparedness and Response Ordinance in the state of Iowa.

Check out our flu posters

Read more about influenza:

Influenza prevention

Influenza symptoms

Vaccine prices 

What vaccines do children need?

What vaccines do adults need?

 

 

 


Immunizations | TB Screening | STDs | HIV / AIDS | Flu / Pneumonia
Head Lice | Bloodborne Pathogen Education | Hepatitis | Lead Poisoning Prevention Tests

Communicable Diseases Summary: A Guide for Schools


Immunization Clinic Hours

If we can assist you in any way, please contact our Disease Prevention staff at (641) 421-9321.
© 2004 • Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health