ALAMOSA — The Alamosa Immunization Coalition wants folks to know that it’s not too late to get a flu vaccine. High numbers of influenza cases have been reported across the nation and state, and the San Luis Valley is no exception, according to Regional Epidemiologist Ginger Stringer. The dominant strain this flu season is also causing more severe illness than most years. Compared to last year’s total of 23 hospitalizations, more than 50 people have been hospitalized in the San Luis Valley so far this flu season.

Some people are at higher risk of complications from the flu—the very young, those over 65, pregnant women and those with long-term medical conditions. But, flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months every year, not just those at risk of complications. Though the vaccine is not 100 percent effective, it is still an important part of preventing the spread of flu viruses.

Flu vaccine is available at public health departments, clinics and pharmacies and unlike some years, there is no shortage of vaccine. Flu vaccine is covered by most insurances and federally-funded vaccine is available for those without insurance at some health departments.

“Flu season has not peaked yet, so if you have not gotten a flu shot yet, you should,” encourages Stringer.

Flu symptoms include high fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, chills and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Flu particles are spread easily through the air by coughing and sneezing. The time an individual is most likely to spread the flu to others is while they are running a fever, so it is particularly important to stay home from work, school, child care or other places until the fever is gone.

In addition to getting vaccinated, other actions to help prevent the flu are washing your hands often with soap and water, avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and covering your cough or sneeze.