Make time for the flu shot this season

Fall is a time for crisp air, colorful leaves, and fun activities! But before you jump into pumpkin spice season, take a moment to plan for your flu vaccine.

Flu season typically runs from October to May, with peak activity between December and February. To ensure you're protected when you need it most, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the flu shot as soon as it's available.

Here’s why:

• It takes time to build protection. Your body needs about two weeks to develop antibodies that fight off the flu after vaccination.

• Planning for travel? Get the flu shot early enough to be protected during your trip.

• Yearly vaccination is key. Antibodies from the previous flu season wane over time, and the flu virus itself can change from year to year.

The good news is flu vaccine will be available at the Oneida County Health Department (OCHD); 100 West Keenan Street, Rhinelander, beginning next week, Monday Sept. 15. Appointments are not necessary. Walk-in hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 to 4 p.m. COVID vaccine will also be available soon. Watch our website and social media for upcoming info on the COVID vaccine.

Want an option closer to you? Oneida County Health Department offers community clinics throughout Oneida County. See below for community clinic times and locations.

• Monday, Sept. 29, 10:30 a.m. to noon; Raymond Sloan Community Center, 7246 Main Street, Lake Tomahawk.

• Tuesday, Sept. 30, noon to 1 p.m.; Cassian Town Hall, 9110 Church Road; Harshaw.

• Thursday, Oct. 2, 9:30 to 11 a.m.; Three Lakes Reiter Center, 1858 S. Michigan Street, Three Lakes.

• Thursday, Oct. 2, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sugar Camp Town Hall, 4059 Camp Four Road, Rhinelander.

• Friday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m. to noon; Nicolet College, 5364 College Drive; Rhinelander.

• Tuesday, Oct. 7, 9 to 11 a.m.; Hodag Dome,863 Hodag Dome Drive, Rhinelander.

• Wednesday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. to noon; Holy Family Catholic Church, 8950 County J, Woodruff.

• Wednesday, Oct. 8, 3:30 to 5 p.m.; MHLT Elementary School, 7450 Titus Drive, Minocqua.

• Tuesday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to noon; Lakeland Senior Center, 103 Elm Street, Woodruff.

• Wednesday, Oct. 15, 4 to 6:30 p.m.; James William Middle School, 915 Acacia Lane, Rhinelander.

• Wednesday, Oct. 15, 4 to 6:30 p.m.; Rhinelander High School, 665 Coolidge Avenue.

• Monday, Oct. 20, 1 to 2 p.m.; Demmer Memorial Library, 6961 W. School Street, Three Lakes.

• Thursday, Oct. 23, 4 to 6:30 p.m.; Pelican Elementary School, 3350 Hickey Road, Rhinelander.

• Thursday, Oct. 23, 4 to 6:30 p.m., Crescent Elementary School, 3319 Boyce Drive, Rhinelander. 

• Monday, Oct. 27, noon to 1 p.m.; Nokomis Town Hall, 2541 Lake Nokomis Road, Tomahawk.

For details and community clinic updates, check out the Oneida County Facebook page, Instagram @oneidacountyhealthdept, website (www.oneidacountypublichealth.org), or call 715-369-6111.

For RSV and pneumococcal vaccinations, please call the Oneida County Health Department at 715-369- 6111 to make an appointment.

Don’t let the flu steal your fall fun. Get your flu shot and enjoy the season!