Some people compare it to being hit by a Mack truck. While having the flu isn't quite that traumatic, it can does come on quickly and leave you feeling pretty terrible.

In recent years, doctors have begun recommending that most people get a flu shot to help ward of this dreaded illness. With flu season upon us, now is the time to get a shot and many local establishments are offering flu shots.

The Logan County Health Department will be administering flu shots in the lobby of First Southern National Bank's Main Office on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. Shots cost $23 and will only be given to adults, age 18 and older. The health department accepts Medicare Part B and Medicaid.

The health department will be offering flu shots to children on Nov. 3 from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Call 726-8341 for cost information.

Many local pharmacies also offer flu shots. Call to find out times and costs. You can also check with your pediatrician or physician about getting a flu shot.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. Each year in the U.S. between five to 20 percent of the population gets the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications and about 36,000 people die from flu.

Throughout the winter months, many people have flu-like symptoms and may have the flu or a cold. There are some differences between the two common illnesses. Symptoms of a common cold include a stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and hacking cough. Cold symptoms often come on gradually. A cold is usually not serious, but if the symptoms are severe it is a good idea to get some rest and, for a child, stay home from school. Colds can also turn into common illnesses such as a sinus infection.

Symptoms of the flu, on the other hand, often come on quite quickly and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches. The flu is a serious illness and parents should keep children with the flu out of school.

In addition to getting the flu vaccination, there are other ways to stay healthy this winter. Washing your hands often with soap and warm water is a great way to prevent germs from spreading. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

If someone in your house gets the flu, contact your doctor because a prescription antiviral medicine can actually prevent other people in a household from getting the flu.

For more information on the flu visit www.cdc.gov/flu.