Local Experts Stress Importance of Flu Vaccination and Community Access
Crawford County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) recently hosted a valuable “Lunch and Learn” educational session featuring Cheryl Lahr, BSN, RN, Public Health Nurse from Crawford County Community Health. The session, titled “Influenza Vaccine and the VFA (Vaccines for Adults) Program: Protecting Our Communities,” provided attendees with critical information on the public health impact of influenza and strategies for improving vaccination rates.
The presentation underscored the serious nature of the flu. It affects millions of people annually in the U.S. and can lead to serious complications, hospitalizations, and deaths. High-risk groups include the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions.
Vaccine Effectiveness and Timing
Lahr highlighted that the flu vaccine is a key preventive measure. When the vaccine is well-matched to the circulating strains, it reduces the risk of flu illness by 40-60%. Furthermore, it is proven to reduce severity, hospitalizations, and deaths.
It is important to note that the flu vaccine becomes effective approximately two weeks after the shot is administered, highlighting the need for early vaccination, ideally between September and October. If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, there’s still time! The vaccine offers protection for 5–6 months, according to Lahr.
A portion of the session was dedicated to addressing common concerns and myths about the vaccine:
- Myth: The flu shot gives you the flu. Fact: It cannot cause flu illness.
- Myth: Healthy people don’t need it. Fact: Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated.
- Myth: It’s not effective. Fact: Even partial protection reduces both the severity of illness and its spread.
Promoting Access: The VFA Program
Another key focus of the discussion was the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) Program, which aims to reduce vaccine-preventable diseases in vulnerable populations.
The VFA program provides free vaccines, including the flu vaccine, to eligible adults who are uninsured or underinsured (subject to specific state guidelines). This program is administered through public health departments, increasing access in underserved communities.
- VFA clinics are offered twice a month.
- A $15 donation for administration is requested.
To learn more, individuals—whether they have insurance or not—are encouraged to call Crawford County Community Health.
Leading by Example
A majority of attendees—including CCMH staff and community members—confirmed they had received their flu shot. This high participation rate demonstrates strong engagement from the community in preventive care and highlights the willingness of attendees to be role models for vaccination.
Providers Q & A Session
In addition to Lahr’s presentation, three CCMH providers were at the Lunch and Learn for a Questions and Answer session. Julie Graeve, ARNP, MS; Elizabeth Ranniger, MD; and Kiaya Alderson, PA-C, MSPAS answered questions from the attendees about various types of vaccinations.
Contact Information
For information on the VFA Program, please contact: Crawford County Community Health at 712-263-3303.
To schedule an appointment at CCMH for a flu shot or other vaccination, please call 712-265-2700.
