By Joanne Runyan, SJC public health nurse

Flu is unpredictable and how severe it is can vary widely from one season to the next.

Anyone can get sick with the flu, but certain people are at greater risk for serious complications, causing hospitalization or even death.

Those at greater risk are: people 50 years of age or older, infants and children younger than five, people with chronic lung disease, diabetes, and certain other long-term conditions, pregnant women, and severely obese people.

Every year, thousands of healthy adults and children have to visit the doctor or are hospitalized from flu complications. The first and most important step in protecting against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season.

The CDC recommends a three-step approach to fighting the flu.

First, everyone six months of age and older should receive an influenza vaccine.

Second, use everyday preventive actions such as thorough hand washing, covering your cough and staying home when you are sick.

And, third, use anti-viral drugs if recommended by your doctor.

Getting a flu vaccine is easy, and it is the single-best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu. Get vaccinated early and stay protected throughout the flu season.

Flu vaccines will be offered in many locations throughout the county.

Flu Clinics:

• Shaw Community Center: Monday, Oct. 13, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• Mullis Senior Center: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 1–4 p.m. (sponsored by San Juan Health Care)

• Orcas Senior Center: Tuesday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (sponsored by Orcas Family Health)

• Peace Island Medical Center: Thurs-Friday, Oct. 30-31, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

San Juan Health Care Associates (378-1338) and Peace Island Medical Center (378-2141) offer routinely scheduled appointments.

The San Juan County Health Department, in Friday Harbor, will also offer community Flu Clinic day; October 6, 10, 15, 17, 20, 22; 378-4474 for appointments.

— The county Health Department will also offer flu clinics for local school children.