Flu Shots Can Help Keep the Holidays Healthy – National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 8–14
For
Immediate Release: December 9, 2008
Contact: Howard Sutter (714) 834-2178
(Santa Ana) – The holidays are a time when friends and family gather in celebration but they can also be a time when influenza viruses are circulating, so a seasonal flu shot is an important preventive measure to help ensure a happy holiday.
“As people travel during the holidays, they may be exposed to influenza viruses and other seasonal illnesses,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “In addition to an annual flu shot, we encourage everyone to take a few simple precautions during the holidays to protect their health and the health of others. These precautions include frequent hand washing, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and protecting your overall health by eating nutritious foods, getting enough rest and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.”
Influenza activity in Orange County has been sporadic so far this season, but influenza activity can peak as late as February or March, so there is still plenty of time to benefit from the protection provided by a flu shot. Information about the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) flu shot program is available by calling the HCA Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448 or by visiting the Health Care Agency’s website at www.ochealthinfo.com/public/flu. HCA’s seasonal flu shot program provides free flu shots to eligible individuals including:
To keep bacteria and foodborne illness from your holiday meals, follow these simple preparation guidelines.
- People 50 years of age or older
- People with chronic disease like heart disease, asthma or other lung disease
- Children aged six months through 59 months (less than 5 years of age)
- Children or adolescents receiving long-term aspirin therapy
- Women who are pregnant or will be pregnant during flu season
- People with health conditions that suppress their immune or respiratory system
- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities
- Health care workersAnyone living with or caring for children under 5 years, adults over 50 years of age, or other individuals who are at higher risk of complications from influenza
Other family members can get a flu shot or the FluMist nasal flu vaccine through private health care providers such as community clinics, physician offices, urgent care centers or pharmacies. Visit the American Lung Association website at www.flucliniclocator.org for assistance in finding a flu shot.
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