Health officials confirm first case of flu in Nevada

The flu has arrived in Nevada.

Washoe County's District Health Department reported Tuesday the first case of the influenza A virus in the Truckee Meadows. Vener DeFriez, vaccine coordinator for the Nevada Immunization Program, said no cases have been reported in Carson City. She recommends receiving a flu shot as soon as possible to build the two-week immunity necessary to fight the flu. The best time to get a flu shot is October to mid-November.

According to the Center for Disease Control's website, influenza is a virus that attacks the respiratory track. Features of the flu include high fevers, a cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, muscle and joint aches and often fatigue.

The center reported that the flu is associated with roughly 20,000 deaths on average nationwide per year. The center recommends that anyone over the age of 65, people with chronic heart, lung or kidney diseases and diabetes receive the immunization. It is also recommended for anyone working in the health care profession, around children or in nursing homes. People who are allergic to eggs should not receive the flu vaccine. The vaccine has few side effects in most people except for tenderness in the area where the shot is given.

Carson-Tahoe Hospital is offering free flu shots at the Carson Mall, 1313 S. Carson St. For reservations call 887-3767.

Date Time

Oct. 15 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Oct. 20 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct. 22. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct. 25 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct. 28 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct. 29 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Nov. 1 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Nov. 2 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Flu shots will be offered at the Minden Medical Center, 925 Ironwood Dr., for Douglas County residents. For reservations call 887-3770

Date Time

Oct. 14 9 a.m. to noon

Oct. 23 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Oct. 27 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Nov. 3 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Nov. 12 9 a.m. to noon

For information on the influenza virus try www.cdc.gov/ncidod/flu/fluinfo.htm