Flu season and the holiday season run roughly together, according to Marion County Public Health Director Kim Dorn.

With families gathering to eat and celebrate together, influenza cases rise substantially. In order to protect themselves and their families, Dorn encourages everyone who has not received a flu shot to do so before the end of December. She stresses while the flu may only be an inconvenience for some, its complications can be serious for both the young and old. Pneumonia and other potentially fatal conditions can develop from a case of flu in infants and those older than 65. Dorn suggests speaking to primary care providers about the flu shot or seeking assistance from Marion County Public Health. She says there are many ways to get a flu shot and lack of access is no excuse for failing to protect yourself and those around you.