Inova Health System's HealthSource began offering influenza vaccinations to adults and children throughout the Washington region on Oct. 1. Every year more than 200,000 people are hospitalized nationwide from flu complications and about 36,000 die from flu, according to IHS.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone get vaccinated. A flu shot is the only way to prevent influenza, according to IHS. Persons at high risk for serious complications from flu include: Children six months to five years of age, adults with children up to 18 years of age, adults 50 and over, adults and children who have medical conditions that lower the body's immune system, adults who live in, work at or have contact with anyone in institutions such as schools, nursing homes and/or hospitals, women who are pregnant in any trimester, or who may deliver during flu season.
For a complete listing of all Inova HealthSource flu clinics visit <a href=http://www.inova.org/flu> www.inova.org/flu</a> or schedule an appointment by calling 703-750-8818.