Don’t take chances with your health, urges the county, which is offering free flu shots on Monday, Dec. 9.

In observance of National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec. 8-14), the Chester County Health Department will offer the free vaccinations – recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older – at the Chester County Library in Exton from 2 to 6 p.m.

“Flu can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death,” said Chester County Health Department Director Jeanne Casner. “It’s not too late to be vaccinated, especially as we enter the holiday season.”

Much of the U.S. population is at increased risk from serious flu complications, either because of their age or because they have a medical condition like asthma, diabetes (type 1 and 2), heart conditions, or because they are pregnant, said a Health Department news release. 

Last year, flu season began early and was moderately severe, lasting longer than previous seasons.

“The 2012-2013 season was a reminder of the unpredictability of influenza,” added Casner. “It’s not possible to predict how mild or severe this year’s season will be, and getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the flu.”

To learn more about flu and other vaccines, visit http://pa-chestercounty.civicplus.com/index.aspx?NID=843. For more information about the Chester County Library Flu Vaccine Clinic, contact the Chester County Health Department at 610-344-6252.