The Flu and You
Flu Clinics at Choctaw Nation Community Centers
Additional dates will be added as soon flu vaccine becomes available.
09/11/13 Durant and McAlester {if flu vaccine is available}
09/18/13 McAlester {if flu vaccine is available}
09/25/13 Wright City, Bethel , Spiro and Hugo
10/02/13 Atoka, Stigler and Smithville
10/08/13 Talihina
10/09/13 Wilburton, Antlers and Crowder,
10/16/13 Spiro, Idabel, Coalgate and Crowder
10/23/13 Broken Bow, Bethel
What you need to know about the flu
What is influenza (the flu)?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness. At times, it can lead to death.
Who should get a flu vaccine?
Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine, especially if you are at high risk for complications, or if you live with or care for someone who is high risk for complications.
Your family may be especially vulnerable to the flu.
Influenza poses a greater risk to certain people, including pregnant women, children, and elders, who are all at high risk for flu-related complications. In fact, pneumonia and flu are a leading cause of death among Native elders. The flu also can cause certain health conditions, including diabetes, asthma, and heart and lung disease, to become worse. Pneumonia and bronchitis are examples of serious flu-related complications, which can result in hospitalization and sometimes even death.
Signs and symptoms of the FLU
People sick with influenza feel some or all of these symptoms:
• Fever* or feeling feverish/ chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (very tired)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
*Not everyone with the flu will have a fever. You can be sick and contagious without running a temperature.
Help prevent the spread of flu
• Get a flu vaccine each year.
• Stop the spread of germs, including influenza viruses:
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Wash your hands often
- If you’re sick, stay home
• Take antiviral drugs if they are prescribed for you.