For Immediate Release
October 29, 2003

Contact: Gerald A. Wagner, M.D.
(714) 834-8411

Free Flu Shot Clinics Begin November 3

(Santa Ana) – Free flu shots for those at highest risk of complications from influenza will be available beginning Monday, November 3 at the County Health Care Agency’s operated clinics.  “Medicare and many insurance plans cover the cost of flu shots, so we encourage seniors and others who want flu shots to contact their private physician or other local providers,” said Dr. Mark Horton, County Health Officer.

The County’s annual influenza vaccination program is targeted to protect people age 60 years and older and persons of any age with chronic diseases such as asthma, lung disease, heart disease, metabolic disorders, kidney disease and immune-suppression.  In addition, women who will be in their second or third trimester of pregnancy during the influenza season and children on long-term aspirin therapy are also eligible for the County’s flu shot program.

“The flu shot is one of the most effective public health measures we have.  Some of the best advice I can give to our senior citizens and people of all ages with chronic health problems is to receive a flu shot annually, “ recommended Dr. Horton.

Free flu shots for people age 60 years and older and others eligible for the County flu shot program will be available beginning November 3 at the following Health Care Agency walk-in immunization sites:

·        Santa Ana – 1725 W. 17^th Street: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday evenings until 7 p.m.

·        Buena Park – 7342 Orangethorpe: Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

·        Costa Mesa – 2845 Mesa Verde Drive East: Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

·        San Juan Capistrano – 27512 Calle Arroyo: Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Although it is not available through the state’s influenza program, influenza vaccine is recommended for all infants and children ages 6-23 months, and for people as young as age 50 who are in good health, particularly those who have regular contact with the elderly and persons with high risk medical conditions, and persons of any age who wish to reduce their risk of having flu disease this winter.

Information about community sites participating in the Health Care Agency’s flu shot program is available by calling the County of Orange Health Referral Line at 1-800-564-8448.  Persons who are not eligible for the Health Care Agency’s flu shot program can obtain flu shots from their health care provider, local pharmacies and other locations in the community for a reasonable cost.  Visit www.findaflushot.com to find a participating location near you.

Influenza and Influenza Vaccine - Fact Sheet

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