INDIANAPOLIS -- An Indianapolis hospital is offering free flu shots to Hoosiers this week as health officials say the flu season is already underway.
Community Health Network is offering the free shots at Community Hospital East near North Ritter Avenue and 16th Street each day this week.
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You can get free shots on the following dates and times:
- Tuesday: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 1 pm.
- Thursday: Noon to 4 p.m.
- Friday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The free flu shots are being given on a first-come, first served basis to anyone 18 years old and older.
According to the CDC, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protects against the flu. The CDC recommends people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible.
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This year's flu season got an early start in Central Indiana with hospitals already reporting cases of both the flu A and B strains.
Typical symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
While there is no cure for the flu, some medications can help ease symptoms, according to health officials.
How can you tell if you have the flu, allergies or the traditional cold?
If you are feeling the effects of allergies, you typically won't have a fever or much fatigue or body aches. If you have a cold, you might have a mild fever and some body aches. You might feel weak and even have some ear congestion. Colds generally last about a week.
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If you're diagnosed with the flu, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands and stay home.
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