Flu Shots, in August?

By Mark Carlson, Reporter

Tools

By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Aug 24, 2011 at 6:43 PM CDT

Story Updated: Aug 24, 2011 at 7:27 PM CDT

IOWA CITY, Iowa — This week, CVS Pharmacies announced that they have already stocked up on influenza vaccine ahead of the upcoming flu season. On Monday, CVS pharmacies across Eastern Iowa started advertising for flu shots outside of their buildings.

“It feels really early because you’re still in summer mode,” said Michelle Nanji, of Iowa City. “But it makes sense, especially in a college town bustling with students.”

Despite what many see as “too early,” Doug Beardsley, Director of Johnson County Public Health, says there is no reason to wait. “It seems a little early, I recall several years back when we started in October,” said Beardsley. “But the protection will last.”

Flu season generally spans from October until early April, according to UIHC Doctor Loreen Herwaldt. “I don’t see a rush to go out and get one (flu shot) at this point,” Herwaldt said.

Neither Beardsley or Herwaldt said they were aware of any early cases of influenza in Johnson County.

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