BIG SKY – With the changing fall foliage comes a less favorable season, and one you should be no less prepared for: flu season.
Influenza season generally runs from October-May and peaks mid-winter. Dr. Jeffery Daniels of the Medical Clinic of Big Sky says it’s time for your flu shot.
“Last year we had a terrible flu season,” Dr. Daniels said. “Probably the worst I’ve ever seen. We’re encouraging people to get vaccinated now.”
Daniels’ clinic in Town Center currently has flu shots available until supplies run out. In the past, local nonprofit Women In Action paid for the vaccinations for those without health insurance coverage. This year WIA is not covering these costs, but Daniels is offering discounted shots to those who might otherwise forgo the treatment.
Flu vaccination prices have gone up in recent years and can cost as much as $50, but the Big Sky clinic is offering them for around $25, Daniels said. “We’ll offer the cheapest price possible.”
The Center for Disease Control recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get vaccinated. The shots are approximately 60 percent effective, according to the CDC.
The Medical Clinic of Big Sky is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until the ski resort opens on Thanksgiving Day. After that, the Town Center clinic is open the same hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. – JTO
