Officials at the Atlantic Medical Center (AMC)  announced Friday that they no longer have any flu vaccine available for people over 2 years of age.  Jeri Orstad, RN, AMC Immunization Nurse, checked with Cass County Public Health and the Hy-Vee Pharmacy, and confirmed they have also used all of their vaccine supply. The  AMC does have limited doses available for children ages 6 months to two years.

Officials say some children in that age group will require two doses of vaccine. Your personal healthcare provider will advise you of your child’s needs.  For those who do need two doses parents are reminded to bring them back for the second dose, to ensure they receive the full vaccine benefit.

According to the Centers for Disease Control Website, everyone should utilize the following good health habits to avoid spreading flu and other infectious diseases:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.