What are the key reasons to get the flu shot?

• Flu vaccination can keep you from getting sick with the flu.
• Flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce the severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick.
• Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of hospitalization.
• It is an important preventative tool for people with certain chronic health conditions.
• Flu vaccination during pregnancy helps protect pregnant people from flu during and after pregnancy and helps protect their infants from flu in their first few months of life.
• Getting vaccinated helps protect the people around you.

Who needs a Flu Vaccine?

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine, with the exception of those who are at risk for serious complications from influenza.

If you would like more information on who needs a flu vaccine, you can find it here.

A Short Summary Guide for Fall 2023 Vaccines

Find more information on the three vaccinations:

Learn more about the updated flu vaccine recommendations.

Learn more about the updated Covid-19 vaccination.

Learn more about the new RSV vaccine for older adults.

Khrysty Burkhardt-Deister is a Clinic Nurse for Communicable Disease and Public Health Emergency Preparedness. She provides immunization, family planning education, and clinic services to children and adults. Khrysty also manages the investigation of Lead, Hepatitis B, and C. Additionally, Khrysty coordinates preparedness exercises in collaboration with the Director of the Health Department.

Khrysty has been at the Health Department for three years. She feels very fortunate to be a part of such a supportive, resilient team. "I love the people I work with and being here for the people in my community!"

When asked why she wanted to work for the Health Department, Khrysty said, "I wanted to come work here to make a positive difference in the lives of our community. However, little did I know what a difference it would make in my life."

Khrysty loves spending time with her husband, two boys, and three grandchildren. She has a German Wirehaired Pointer. "I love cooking, grilling, baking, and being outside. Fall is my favorite time of the year with the changing colors and football!"

An observance to highlight the vital role of substance use prevention in both individual and community health and to remember those who have lost their lives to substance misuse.

Prescription opioids are commonly used to treat chronic and acute pain. However, they can be extremely addictive and dangerous. Awareness starts with you. Tell others how prescription opioids have affected you. Talk to your doctor about your options when it comes to managing pain. There are many options that are just as effective as opioids and are much safer.

Find more about opioid awareness here.

We want to know what you would like to see more of in Community Health Matters. Our goal is to provide you with the most value possible, so please take a moment to share your thoughts and reply to feautoa@salinecountyks.gov.