FCPL to Host Seminar on Ebola, Give Flu Shots, and Teach Nutrition

Forsyth County Public Library is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Walgreens, and Publix to educate residents about Ebola and other infectious diseases, immunize teens, adults, and seniors against influenza, and help those with chronic disease meet their unique nutritional needs.

Dr. James Lange of the CDC will present a lecture about Ebola and other infectious diseases at the Sharon Forks Library on Wednesday, October 8, 2014, at 6:30 p.m. This event is free to the public and is intended for adults and teens.

Dr. Lange’s presentation will focus on the facts about Ebola, including what it is, how it spreads, and how it is treated. He will also discuss infectious diseases, such as influenza and the common cold, and talk about the importance of vaccinations and other prevention tips. Advance registration is recommended for this presentation.

Dr. Lange has a BS and a Masters in Microbiology from Louisiana State University and a PhD of Pathology from University of North Carolina. He has worked as a research Microbiologist for the CDC, as well as assisting international organizations with research, education, and training. Dr. Lange is also a decorated veteran officer of the United States Army and he has managed and conducted research in several domestic and overseas military hospitals.

To help protect against the spread of the influenza virus this flu season, Walgreens will be hosting clinic days at all four library branches. Flu shots will be offered at the Hampton Park Library on Wednesday, October 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Cumming Library on Wednesday, October 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Sharon Forks Library on Wednesday, October 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and at the Post Road Library on Wednesday, October 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Flu shots will be given by Walgreens Certified Immunizing Pharmacists at a discounted rate of $25.99 for the regular trivalent vaccine or $54.99 for the high dose vaccine given to seniors ages 65 and up. Walgreens will accept cash and checks, or they can process insurance and accept copays.

Advance registration is not required, but patrons may pick up the Walgreens Vaccine Administration Registration form at any library branch to complete before the clinic day. Forms will also be available on clinic day. Patrons ages 13 and up may receive a flu shot. The Flumist nasal spray will not be available during clinic days. If you have a fever on clinic day, you will not be able to receive the immunization.

To help patrons with chronic diseases better manage their health, Publix Pharmacist Amy Knaperek will visit the Sharon Forks Library on Friday, October 24 at 10:30 a.m. to present a program entitled “An Apple a Day.” The seminar will focus on basic nutrition programs for people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.  Advance registration is recommended for this seminar.

For more information about these events, or to search for books, magazines, and other resources on health and medicine, please visit www.forsythpl.org.