HARRISON COUNTY, W.Va (WDTV) - Coughing, runny nose and fever are just a few Influenza symptoms that will surely wreck your day. Unfortunately, with it being October, the risk of contracting the flu has ramped up, because October through March is considered 'Flu Season'. That's why Donna Riffle, Nurse Director at the Harrison-Clarksburg Health Department says getting ahead of the virus is important.

"The flu vaccine is offered annually and now is a great time to get it because flu season is usually October through March, Peeking between December and February," said Riffle. "When you get your vaccine, it takes two weeks to become completely effective in your system so that's why it's important to get it a little bit before flu season starts."

This year's flu vaccine is trivalent, protecting against three different flu strains. Influenza is a virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs. It attacks the respiratory system which could cause complications in breathing, but another virus with similar symptoms continues to join the flu as a health concern.

"We also have the COVID-19 virus that is still out in our communities that we need to be protected from and it spreads similarly to the Influenza virus," said Riffle. "If you're sick, you should stay home and not be around anyone as with any virus you have a temperature or you know you're having active symptoms you should be out without a mask. Vaccination is the way that we can help to prevent the disease and minimize any complications that may occur."

Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can be acquired at the Harrison-Clarksburg Health Department, pharmacies, and other clinics.