Not Too Late to Benefit from Flu Vaccine

December 5, 2013                                                                                       

Not Too Late to Benefit from Flu Vaccine

Observe 2013 National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 8-14) by Getting Immunized!

Noting that influenza activity usually peaks in January, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken are urging all residents who have not yet received this season’s flu vaccination to get one as soon as possible. Flu season runs from October through May.

“Influenza is a substantial public health threat, so we ask individuals to get the vaccine to protect not only themselves but also their families and the community,” said Bellone. “Once vaccinated, you can enjoy this holiday season knowing that you have taken the single best step to protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu.”

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step I protecting against influenza disease.  Children under age nine may need to return for a second dose of immunization.

“Most people who become infected with the flu will suffer with fever, congestion, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches over the course of a week or two and will eventually recover completely, said Dr. Tomarken. “However, some are at greater risk for serious complications that can lead to hospitalization or even death. The flu vaccine is the best way modern medicine currently has to protect against this potentially serious disease.”

Dr. Tomarken offered the following CDC recommendations to residents:

• Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctors’ offices, clinics, local health centers, pharmacies, college health centers and places of business. Contact your health care provider today for your flu vaccine.
• Students and adults should stay home from school or work if they develop influenza-like illness.
• If you do get sick, wash hands often and cover your coughs and sneezes. It’s best to use a tissue and quickly throw it away. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. This will prevent the spread of germs.
• Get plenty of rest and drink a lot of fluids.
• Individuals who are particularly vulnerable to complications from influenza should seek medical attention at the first signs of illness. People at high risk for developing serious flu complications include children younger than 5 years, people 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions, blood disorders, morbid obesity, kidney and liver disorders, HIV or AIDS, and cancer.

Residents with questions about influenza may call the Department of Health Services Hotline number 800-787-2200.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov. For flu-related questions contact FluInbox@cdc.gov.