Through December 17, 2004, the Nassau County Department of Health has provided over 25,000 doses of flu vaccine to Nassau County Doctors for them to provide to their high priority patients.

There is still a flu vaccine shortage in Nassau County. The Health Department is continuing to try to supply health care providers with additional vaccine to meet their needs.

Currently, no additional flu clinics are scheduled at the present time. If the department receives additional vaccine from the state or federal governments to distribute for the high priority residents, the Health Department will notify the public through the media.

To protect yourself and your family from the flu. Everyone should:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Maintain a healthy life style, including getting plenty of sleep, engaging in physical activity, managing stress, drinking water, eating nutritious food, and avoiding use of tobacco.