Baltimore County Offers a Jump on Flu Season

Flu season is here and the Baltimore County Department of Health is offering a slate of free services to help residents combat cold weather illnesses.

County residents can dial in to on-call pharmacists on Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. when the department presents Ask a Pharmacist Day, according to a health department statement.

Whether you want information on what kind of flu vaccine is right for you; you have questions about over-the-counter or prescription cold and flu medicines; questions about medical conditions and flu vaccination eligibility; or tips on how to avoid colds and the flu, call 410-887-2243 to talk with a pharmacist.

On Saturday, free flu shots will be offered at five clinics around the county, including one at Hereford Middle School, 712 Corbett Rd, Monkton, MD 21111. Flu shots for seniors are also available at the Baby Boomer/Senior Expo at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium on Wednesday and Thursday.

The free vaccines will be available from 9 a.m. to noon (or while supplies last) on Oct. 13.

Free clinics will also be held at the Drumcastle Government Center in Towson, Holabird Middle School in Dundalk, Lansdowne Middle School and the Randallstown Community Center.

To prevent the spread on contagious viruses, including seasonal flu, county health department officials recommend the following tips:

•     Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
•     Always get an annual flu shot
•     Cover your cough and sneeze
•     Take time off if you have symptoms
•     Seek care if your symptoms get worse

For more information on the seasonal and H3N2 flu, visit www.flu.gov.

Lutherville-Timonium Patch editor Nick DiMarco contributed to this report.