(Santa Ana) - The Orange County Health Care Agency’s (HCA) seasonal flu shot clinics begin October 29 at locations throughout the county, with HCA encouraging those in high-risk groups to receive a flu shot to increase their protection against influenza and its potential complications.

Information about locations, dates and times is available by calling the HCA Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448 or by visiting the Health Care Agency website at www.ochealthinfo.com/public/flu. HCA’s program provides free flu shots to eligible individuals including:

• People 50 years of age and older

• People with chronic disease like heart disease, asthma, and other lung diseases, as well as those with health conditions that suppress their immune or respiratory system

• Health care workers

• Women who will be pregnant during flu season

• Children aged 6 months until their 5th birthday

• Children or adolescents receiving long-term aspirin therapy

• Anyone living with or caring for children under 5 years or adults over 50 years

• Anyone living with or caring for people with medical conditions that place them at higher risk of complications from flu.

“Receiving a flu shot is an effective measure in preventing the flu,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “This is an ideal time to become vaccinated against the flu, as the flu season in Orange County often peaks near the end of December or beginning of January and can last until April.”

Those not eligible for the county program can obtain a flu shot from doctor’s offices, pharmacies and health care clinics. For assistance in finding a flu shot, visit the American Lung Association website at www.flucliniclocator.org.
 

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