LOCAL NEWS | Health — The Tennessee Department of Health and Moore County Health Department will partner to offer free, drive thru flu shots on Tuesday, November 19 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Flu season typically peaks in Tennessee around January and February but according to state health officials confirmed flu cases are already on the uptick. The CDC Flu Activity Map shows 12 of Tennessee’s 95 counties currently have at least one confirmed flu case. Last year in Middle Tennessee, three children and one pregnant woman died due to flu related illness. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), flu kills over 36,000 Americans annually.

Flu shots are recommended for all individuals over the age of six months. It’s especially important for infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms include fever, cough, congestion, and body aches. The illness is highly contagious. Those who suspect they have the flu should stay at home and avoid contacts with others until all symptoms have cleared. To prevent the spread of flu virus, people should cover their mouths when they cough, wash their hands regularly, and routinely disinfect their home and office spaces until flu season is over.

Shots will be administered under the awning at the Lynchburg Church of Christ located at 376 Main Street. •

{The Lynchburg Times is an independently owned and operated newspaper that publishes new stories every morning. Covering Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}