For Immediate Release
November 21, 2006

Contact: Deanne Thompson
 (714) 834-2178

Flu Shots Still Available in Orange County
November 27 – December 4, 2006 is National Influenza Vaccine Week

(Santa Ana) – ‘Tis the season for spreading good cheer – and often for spreading the influenza virus. When it comes to your health, a flu shot may be the best gift you get this holiday season. Anyone wishing to prevent becoming ill with influenza should get vaccinated.

“The flu season in Orange County usually peaks near the end of December or the beginning of January and can last until April,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “National Influenza Vaccine Week is a timely reminder that it’s not too late to protect your health by getting a flu shot.”

Flu shots are available for eligible individuals through the County’s annual influenza vaccination program. Information about locations and dates for the County’s flu shot program is available by calling the HCA Health Referral Line at 1-800-564-8448 or on the Health Care Agency website at www.ochealthinfo.com/public/flu. Flu shots are also available from private physicians, pharmacies and other retail businesses in the community.

Seasonal flu shots provide protection against the complications of influenza and help to prevent the spread of influenza to others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that the following highest priority groups receive flu shots:

• Children 6-59 months of age
• Pregnant women
• People 50 years of age and older
• Children and adolescents who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
• People with chronic diseases like heart disease, asthma, other lung disease or diabetes
• People with a health condition that suppresses their immune or respiratory system
• Residents of long-term care facilities that house people with chronic medical conditions
• Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children 0 to 59 months of age
• Health care workers
  
  

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