Flu Clinics and Info
Flu clinics offering seasonal flu shots are beginning now. For the most up-to-date information call the Information and Caregiver Resource Center at 413-773-5555 or 978-544-2259. Or check on the web at Public Flu Clinic Finder. Read more about Colds vs Flu vs H1N1.
H1N1 Flu Vaccinations - December 2009
You may have noticed the spread of the H1N1 flu decreasing lately. And in between all the holiday festivities and to-do lists, you may be asking whether getting the vaccine is still important. What many don't know is that flu season typically lasts through May, and that past pandemics have occurred in waves. In other words, it's possible that we will see another increase in H1N1 and/or seasonal flu in the months ahead. Below are some useful tips provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for you to share with your family and friends as you celebrate the holiday season.
3 Simple Steps to a Healthy New Year
- Add the Vaccine to Your Wish List - Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. To find the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccine clinics nearest you, visit FLU.gov and type in your zip code. The Department of Health and Human Services recently teamed up with Google Maps to create this handy flu vaccine locator. Go ahead, try it
out!
NOTE: Many people at high risk for flu complications have received the H1N1 vaccine, so most states are opening their clinics to the general population. Please call ahead to the desired clinic location to confirm availability. Contact information is listed on the FLU.gov vaccine locator. - Be a Germ Stopper - Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Also, stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick. For additional information, see how to prevent and treat the flu on the FLU.gov web site.
- Check the Facts and Stay Informed - Visit FLU.gov regularly for the latest information. Heard a rumor? Visit Myths & Facts on Flu.gov to run a fact check.
If you've been vaccinated already, please share this message with friends and family and let them know why the H1N1 vaccine is safe and recommended by health experts. The 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is made the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine, including the President, First Lady and their children.
FLU.gov offers free outreach materials available in multiple languages. Visit FLU.gov or call the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636), offering services in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Who should get the seasonal flu shot?
Older persons are the most vulnerable to the seasonal flu with a high risk of serious complications and hospitalization. Infectious disease experts urge that all persons over age 65 and all individuals with chronic health issues should get the pneumococcal vaccine also.
Anyone who wants to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with the flu or spreading flu to others should get a seasonal flu shot every year. The highest incidence of the seasonal flu is in January and February. People 50 years of age and older and others of any age with certain chronic medical conditions should be vaccinated. Health care workers and caregivers should also be vaccinated. People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities usually get seasonal flu shots as part of their care.
Pregnant women, people who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, caregivers of small children, and children between six months to age 19 should also be vaccinated.
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season.