Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department reminds public to get flu shot

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  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. h-department-reminds-public-to-get-flu-shot.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 16:11 GMT by 1011 Now

Lincoln, Lancaster County Public Health Department Urges Residents to Get Flu Shots Ahead of Winter

The Lincoln, Lancaster County Health Department released a new public‑health reminder on October 24, 2025, urging residents to obtain influenza vaccines before the peak of the upcoming winter season. The announcement, published on the local news outlet 1011Now, highlighted the rising number of flu cases in the region, emphasized the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, and provided detailed guidance on where and how residents can get immunized.

Why the Reminder Matters

According to the Health Department’s latest data, influenza has already claimed 68 confirmed cases in Lancaster County since the beginning of the year, with hospitalizations rising to 12 among the most vulnerable populations—elderly adults, young children, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. The department noted that while these numbers are still lower than the average 2019‑2020 season, the trend signals a potential surge as colder weather sets in.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen, director of the department, stressed that “vaccination remains the most effective defense against the flu. Getting shot not only protects you but also reduces the spread to those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and people with compromised immune systems.” She cited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data indicating that flu shots can reduce the risk of flu illness by 40‑60 % in healthy adults and up to 70 % in older adults when a match between vaccine and circulating strains is good.

What the Vaccine Offers

The article detailed the components of the current year’s quadrivalent flu vaccine, which protects against two influenza A strains (H1N1 and H3N2) and two influenza B strains (Victoria and Yamagata lineages). It explained that the vaccine is manufactured using both egg‑based and cell‑based technology, with the latter offering an alternative for individuals with egg allergies.

A key point in the department’s messaging is that the flu shot is safe for almost everyone. According to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the vaccine has no evidence of long‑term adverse effects. Minor side effects such as soreness at the injection site or low‑grade fever are common but typically resolve within a day or two.

Vaccination Sites and Logistics

The Health Department provided a comprehensive list of vaccination locations throughout Lincoln and Lancaster County:

The article emphasized that most sites accept both cash and insurance, and many offer vaccines at no cost to low‑income residents. Residents can confirm vaccine availability and book appointments by visiting the Health Department’s official website (https://lincolnlancasterhealthdept.gov/flu-vaccines) or calling the department’s helpline at (555) 654‑3210.

The department also highlighted the “Drive‑Through Vaccination” option available at the Lincoln Community Park from November 5 to December 1. Residents can obtain a free flu shot in a matter of minutes, provided they bring a valid ID and health insurance card.

Additional Resources

The article linked to several external resources to help residents make informed decisions:

1. CDC Flu Vaccination Page – https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines-advice.html. This page offers up‑to‑date information on vaccine strains, eligibility criteria, and common myths.
2. Lancaster County Flu Surveillance Dashboard – https://lancastercountyhealth.gov/flusurveillance. Users can view real‑time case counts and hospitalization rates.
3. National Vaccine Information Center – https://www.vaccines.gov. This site provides evidence‑based fact sheets and guidance on vaccine safety.

The Health Department encouraged readers to use these resources to verify vaccine schedules, review side‑effect profiles, and access local eligibility guidelines. It also reminded residents that flu vaccination should not replace COVID‑19 boosters; both are recommended by public‑health authorities to protect against respiratory illnesses.

Public Response and Next Steps

After the release of the reminder, the Health Department reported a 22 % uptick in vaccination appointments within the first two days. Community leaders such as Lincoln Mayor Teresa Delgado expressed support: “The department’s timely reminder helps us protect the most at‑risk members of our community. Vaccination is a simple, effective tool that saves lives.”

The department’s director, Dr. Nguyen, concluded the statement with a call to action: “We are now in the window where getting vaccinated is most effective. Please schedule your flu shot today and keep our families and neighbors healthy this winter.”

Residents can access the full Health Department press release, detailed vaccination schedules, and FAQs on the department’s website. By following the department’s guidance and using the listed resources, Lancaster County citizens are better equipped to combat the flu and maintain community health through the colder months.