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Flu Prevention & Preparedness

***PLEASE NOTE: Due to a shortage of Seasonal Flu Vaccine, all Flu Clinics after 10/22/09 have been cancelled.***

Flu season has arrived and this year it’s more important to be prepared than in years past. You plan should now include reasonable precautions and preparation for both traditional influenza and the new H1N1 virus also known as ‘swine flu.' 

Protect your family by getting the flu vaccine. This vaccine does not protect against the H1N1 virus but does offer protection against the three main flu strains that research predicts will be most common this year. A vaccine is the single most effective way to prevent the flu and can reduce the severity of symptoms if you do still get it. Reference the CDC website to find out who should get the seasonal flu vaccine. 

There is also a vaccine for H1N1 expected to be available in October 2009. Check the CDC website to see if you fall into one of the high-risk categories that would make you eligible to receive this new vaccine. If you do fall into one of these categories, consult your doctor about getting the H1N1 vaccine in addition to your seasonal flu vaccine.

At BI-LO we’ve taken extra steps to make sure we’ve got plenty of the essentials you’ll need for prevention and preparedness in case you or a family member becomes sick. If someone in your household does get the flu, it’ll be important that you already have the essentials for home care. This will prevent unnecessary trips to the store by the infected or their caretaker(s) which can spread the virus further.

Suggestions for prevention and home care items are: anti-microbial hand sanitizer &/or hand soap; disinfectant cleaners &/or wipes; latex gloves; Kleenex; *over-the-counter cough medicines, decongestants & pain relievers/fever reducers; facemask or respirator; condensed soups; bottled water.

If you or a family member does get the flu this season, our BI-LO Pharmacy will be ready to assist you. And our $4 Generics program offers unbeatable prices on popular drug(s) prescribed to treat the flu &/or flu-like symptoms. See our Participating Generics List to check for qualifying drugs.

To locate the nearest BI-LO Pharmacy, please use our Store Locator. By checking the 'Pharmacy' box, you can locate a BI-LO Pharmacy near you and even find our Drive-thru locations for when you’re on-the-go. You can also refill or transfer your prescription online in 3 easy steps.

Flu Symptoms include:

• fever (usually high)

• headache

• extreme tiredness

• dry cough

• sore throat

• runny or stuffy nose

• muscle aches

• stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting & diarrhea also can occur but are more common in children than adults
  

See the links below for helpful, printable documents from the Center for Disease Control:

• Take 3 Steps to Fight the Flu- includes information on preventative actions and flu symptoms.

• 2009 H1N1 Flu & You- includes general information, prevention and warning signs in children and adults.

For additional information on the seasonal flu and new H1N1 Flu, visit the CDC’s website.

*Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for correct, safe use of medications.