Think Flu Season is Behind Us? Think Again
Here it is January and you’ve been one of the lucky ones who haven’t gotten sick with seasonal flu or the nasty H1N1 flu. Perhaps you tried to get vaccinated in the fall when vaccine supplies were limited and being reserved for high-risk groups. Then the holidays came, everyone was busy, and you’re fine so why bother?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the NYS Department of Health, although flu activity (caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses) may rise and fall, it is expected to continue for several more months. January through March is typically peak flu season. Vaccination is the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. Because supplies of the 2009 H1N1 vaccines have increased dramatically, CDC is now encouraging everyone who has been patiently waiting to receive the H1N1 vaccine to get vaccinated at this time. Vaccine supplies are plentiful and there is no charge for the shot if you receive it at a public health clinic. You can also receive it from your doctor but ask first if you will be charged a copay.
For more information:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
NYS Dept of Health www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/influenza/h1n1/
The NYS DOH website includes a page that identifies free H1N1 clinics in every county
www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/influenza/vaccination_clinics/