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Don’t fail to get a flu shot this fall

Concern about exotic diseases is high because of the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. News a Liberian man visiting Texas had brought Ebola here heightened the worry among many Americans.

But what of a disease that has killed far more Americans – influenza?

Has protecting yourself against the flu crossed your mind?

It should. Easily available vaccines can protect people against the most dangerous strains of flu. Unlike Ebola, for which there is no known cure, the flu can be prevented.

Influenza can be a killer. During the 2012-13 flu season, the disease was linked to the deaths of 171 children in the United States. It also claims many others at risk, including older Americans.

Yet many people continue to gamble that they will not contract the flu. Aware of the availability of flu shots, they choose not to protect themselves and their loved ones.

That is not a wise course of action for most people. Again, flu shots are available at health departments, doctors’ offices and many pharmacies.

At the very least, getting a flu shot can protect you against being miserable.

If you are at risk because of age or health conditions, a flu shot could save your life.

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