Flu Shots 2008

FLU IMMUNIZATION SEASON BEGINS

The Nassau County Department of Health reminds residents that there is a record supply of flu vaccine this year, so no one should have difficulty getting a flu shot.

In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, it is recommended that certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications. People who should get vaccinated each year are:

Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday

Pregnant women

People 50 years of age and older

People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions

People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:

Health care workers

Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu

Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

In addition, everyone else who wants to reduce their risk of getting influenza should get vaccinated.

To help protect themselves, their family and others from respiratory illnesses, the Nassau County Department of Health recommends that everyone should take the following steps to protect themselves:

Clean your hands. Washing your hands after coughing and sneezing and washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

Cover your cough or sneeze. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing may prevent those around you from getting sick.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

Stay home when you are sick, if possible. Staying home from work, school and errands when sick will help prevent others from catching your illness.

Nassau County has a Senior Citizen Flu Immunization Program which offers seniors, aged 60 years and over, flu shots with no out-of-pocket expenses. Spouses under 60 years of age are also eligible. The program is available at 80 sites around the county. Seniors may call (516) 227-8967 for information or check the Nassau County Department of Health website at: www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health/.