Health officials encourage Yuma residents to get flu shots early this season

The Yuma Health Department is offering flu shots Monday, ahead of the flu season.

Everyone six months of age and older can receive the shot for a fee of $25.

Last year was one of the deadliest flu seasons in years.

Health Officials said they hope to see fewer cases than last years 450 lab-confirmed cases.

Kathy Ward, a Yuma Public Health Supervisor said infants, elderly people, and people with compromised immune systems could have problems when getting the flu. The symptoms including fever, body aches, or even death.

A misconception that Maria Nunez, Deputy Director, said people have is that the flu shot gets them sick. However, Nunez said that even though they did get sick, the flu shot is what prevented them from getting even sicker.

If you get the flu, it is recommended that you see your doctor. You can find a list of clinics offering the flu shot here.