Marion County Public Health is encouraging those who have not had flu shots to do so now.

Public Health Nurse Judi Van Hulzen tells KNIA/KRLS News Iowa’s influenza season typically starts in November and peaks in January or February. It takes up to two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop full protection against the flu virus, so being vaccinated now means protection before the flu activity increases and throughout the rest of the flu season. Iowans aged six months and over are encouraged to receive the flu vaccine. It’s especially important for those at higher risk of developing serious complications, such as pregnant women, children younger than two years old, older adults aged 65 years and older, and people with certain medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and chronic lung disease. Contact Marion County Public Health for more information on vaccinations.