If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, don’t fret. It’s not too late.

Freeborn County Public Health is still offering flu vaccinations on Jan. 12 and 26, at no charge.

The flu season typically starts anywhere from the end of November into December, and it’s a misconception that you have to get your flu shots by the end of December.

According to Freeborn County Public Health Director Lois Ahern, the flu season generally peaks in January or February.

“We typically see people getting ill into March,” she said. “It takes two weeks to develop immunity after you get the shot, so even if you get it now, you’ll be protected by mid-January.”

She said that while reports from the state health department show low and sporadic influenza activity, things generally pick up in January.

“As a reminder, when we’re talking about influenza, we’re talking about an upper respiratory viral illness,” Ahern said.

Symptoms of influenza include fever, body aches and pains, fatigue, cough and generally feeling miserable for several days. Because it’s a viral illness, it cannot be treated through antibiotics. Ahern suggests getting plenty of rest and fluids, and using non-aspirin for fevers, and most importantly, stay home if you’re sick.

For the season, Public Health has given nearly 2,200 immunizations in Freeborn County.

Ahern said they gave about 675 doses at four clinics offered in November and December, which offered free vaccinations to school age children and school employees.

Uninsured and underinsured adults were also eligible to receive vaccinations at the clinics.

The clinics were made possible thanks to federal stimulus funds.

Free flu vaccines

Freeborn County Public Health will offer free flu vaccinations Jan. 12 and Jan. 26 to county residents age 6 months to age 64. Medicare will be charged for people age 65 and older. Appointments are required in advance by calling 507-377-5100.