News

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year and it’s not too late! Grande Ronde Hospital and the Center for Human Development have partnered together to provide free flu clinics for Union County communities. Vaccinations are free of charge and available to anyone from six months old and above.

• February 13, 6 to 8 pm @ Elgin Community Center
• February 14, 3 to 5 pm @ La Grande Presbyterian Friendship Center
• February 14, 6 to 8 pm @ La Grande Presbyterian Friendship Center
• February 18, 6 to 8 pm @ Cove, Allen Hall
• February 19, 6 to 8 pm @ Union Methodist Church
• February 20, 6 to 8 pm @ Imbler High School, Room 1
• February 21, 6 to 8 pm @ North Powder Grange

  The vaccination protects against three separate strains of the flu. Getting a vaccine is very important for people at high risk for serious flu complications and their close contacts. People at high risk include infants, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease, and people 65 and older. Flu is a serious disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year in the United States, on average five percent to 20 percent of the population gets the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and about 36,000 people die from flu.

  Flu activity typically does not reach its peak in the U.S. until February. Flu activity can occur as late as May so getting a vaccine later in the season can still offer protection in most years.

  Along with a vaccination, you can take other measures like frequent hand washing to decrease your chances of getting the flu.