As of Thursday morning, Greene County had just five confirmed flu cases this season. That’s compared to more than 1,800 at this time a year ago. But the Springfield-Greene County Health Department still encourages everyone to get vaccinated each year.
Kendra Findley, administrator for Community Health and Epidemiology, says it can be easy to come into contact with the flu virus.
“Most people are gonna get it from being exposed to somebody through like coughing or sneezing or if they’re around somebody and come into direct contact with expelled virus so if they are touching a common surface that may have virus on it," she says. "From somebody who is just sneezed into their hand and touched a door knob or a common surface say in a grocery store like on a grocery cart handle. Those are common ways where you may come in contact with it."
She wants everyone to prevent themselves from becoming ill.
“We always encourage people first and foremost get your flu vaccine next wash your hands often with soap and water and then if you’re sick stay at home," Findley said.
Findley adds that while people normally get vaccinated toward the end of October or early November, it is not too late to do so.
She encourages people to contact their primary care provider or call a pharmacy to check on prices. Immunizations are offered at the Westside Public Health Center at 660 S. Scenic by appointment or during open clinics from 7:30 to 10 am on Tuesday. Appointments can be made by calling 417-874-1220.