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Georgia

patients may now visit their local pharmacy for their

influenza vaccine. Many pharmacies across the state are

providing flu shots, the cost of which is minimal and the

benefits significant. Pharmacists have undergone

immunization training and provide influenza vaccinations

through a protocol with a physician.

According

to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) each winter, a

flu epidemic sweeps the country and is responsible for

killing on average 20,000 Americans, most of them over

the age of 65.

While 65

percent of seniors receive the flu shot, millions more

remain unprotected, even though the vaccinations are free

under Medicare. Pneumococcal disease, a common cause of

pneumonia, kills more than 10,000 Americans each year.

The CDC

recommends that people at high risk of complications from

influenza, including persons 65 years and over and those

with certain chronic diseases receive influenza vaccine

annually starting in the fall of each year. Patients

should contact their local community pharmacy to inquire

about flu shots, or call 404-231-5074.