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Now is a good time to get vaccinated for H1N1 flu

Now is a good time to get vaccinated for H1N1 flu while there is little flu activity.
Media release
Health and Human Services

Posted

For Immediate Release: Friday, January 08, 2010

Sponsored by: Health and Human Services Department, Division

Now is a good time to be vaccinated for H1N1 flu

National Influenza Vaccination Week: January 10 – 16

Vaccinations: The best way to protect against possible resurgence of H1N1

National Influenza Vaccination Week (January 10 – 16) is a reminder that one of the best things you can do to protect your health in the New Year is to get your H1N1 vaccination if you haven't already received one.

Between April and mid-November, 47 million Americans caught H1N1 flu, more than 200,000 were hospitalized and nearly 10,000 died. Although there is a slowdown in infections the H1N1 flu is still with us and people are still being hospitalized.

Fortunately, vaccine is now widely available and from a variety of sources: provider offices, clinics, pharmacies, and public health sponsored sites throughout the region. Some locations offer free or low-cost vaccine, and at most places, there is little or no wait. (Go to www.google.com/flushot for a location.)

There are many good reasons to get vaccinated now:

  • We are in a time of low infection so getting vaccinated now will prevent illness if we see a recurring "wave" of infection as we have in previous pandemics.
  • H1N1 is a new virus and its course is not predictable.
  • Getting vaccinated now not only protects you, but it protects others in the community, that includes your family, co-workers and friends.
  • The H1N1 vaccine is as safe as the seasonal flu vaccines that hundreds of millions of Americans have received over the last several years. The health risks from getting the flu are considerably greater than possible risks associated with getting vaccinated (see http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/vaccine_safety.htm.)

We encourage everyone to get vaccinated, especially those with a chronic illness.

Parents and caregivers are reminded that children ages 9 and younger need to receive a second H1N1 vaccination if they have only received one. The second dose should be given at least 3 weeks after the first dose.

Media Contact:

Kent Burtner, Communications Officer, Washington County Dept. of Health and Human Services
503-846-3634
[email protected]