Milwaukee leaders urge community members to get vaccinated as flu season begins

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- October typically signifies the start of flu season, and health officials say you shouldn't skip the flu shot.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports only 37% of Milwaukee County residents received a flu vaccine last year - a decline from previous years.

This flu season, their goal is for at least 50% of the county to get a flu vaccine.

Wisconsin Department of Health Secretary-Designee Kirsten Johnson joined Milwaukee's mayor and health commissioner in getting flu shots Wednesday at the Neighborhood House of Milwaukee.

Experts say now is the best time to do so.

"We recommend that people get it by the end of October. We know we see an increase, especially coming into the holidays," Secretary Johnson said. "It's really important to know that you are protected when you anticipate being around family and friends."

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older, especially those over 65, young children, people with chronic illness, and pregnant women.

"If you're exposed to the virus, the chance of you actually getting more ill is significantly decreased compared to if you don't have the shot," said Milwaukee Health Commissioner Mike Totoraitis.

Secretary Johnson is optimistic about the effectiveness of this year's flu shot, especially for Wisconsinites.

"The strain of the vaccine that is available for the flu shot this year was detected in Wisconsin, so we know that it is accurate," Johnson said.

Neighborhood House of Milwaukee offered free flu vaccines Wednesday.

"I get one every year," said resident Terry Hoffmann. "It seemed like I wasn't getting sick when I take it, so, I don't want to get sick."

The Milwaukee Health Department offers free flu vaccinations at the Southside and Northwest health centers.

Shots are also available for no cost at pharmacies and through primary care providers.