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COMMUNITY HEALTH |
Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Clinic Information
There are
currently no flu clinics scheduled.
This year, the recommendation is an annual flu shot for EVERYONE six months or older . This season's flu shot will contain an H1N1 strain of influenza. So adults will only need one vaccination (a seasonal flu shot), rather than two vaccinations (last year a seasonal and an H1N1 flu shot.) Children will need one or two shots, depending upon their age and vaccination status. The 2010-11 vaccine will include the strains: A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)-like; A/Perth/16/2009 (H3N2)-like; and B/Brisbane/60/2008-like. WHY SHOULD I GET A FLU SHOT? I'M NOT HIGH-RISK! People in high-risk groups usually know that they should get a flu shot. But many persons do not think they should get a flu shot because they are not in one of the high-risk groups. However, getting a flu shot not only protects you, but it protects those around you ! This includes elderly persons you may visit, infants who are too young to get flu shots and your co-workers. The more people who get immunized, the less chance the flu germs have to find a host to grow and survive. Immunizing as many people as possible creates a herd immunity, allowing fewer flu germs to circulate in the community. So please consider a flu shot, if not for your own protection, for those around you. TWO KINDS of FLU VACCINE NEW REQUIREMENT FOR DAY CARE ATTENDEES
Persons age 65 and over, may be offered the regular seasonal flu shot or they may be offered the new high-dose seasonal flu shot. Note: those under 65 should not take the high-dose vaccination. For answers to questions about this high dose vaccine, see, Questions and Answers: Fluzone High-Dose Seasonal Influenza Vaccine, 4/30/2010.) PREVENTING FLU AND FLU-LIKE ILLNESS
• Use respiratory etiquette. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze with a tissue. (If a tissue is unavailable, at least try to cough into your sleeve.) Dispose of used tissues in a trash can.
• Try to avoid persons who are ill if you can. And don't go visiting when you are sick . Your intentions may be good in wanting to make that visit to the nursing home. But if you are sick, you will be bringing germs into an environment where people are more vulnerable to illness. If you have a medical condition or if a viral illness that doesn't show signs of improvement within a few days, it is a good idea to check with your health care provider if you have an influenza-like illness. This is especially true if the illness is accompanied by a high fever, unusual symptoms, difficulty breathing, moderate pain or other severe symptoms. While most people recover without complications from the garden-variety viral illness, others may develop complications such as sinusitis or pneumonia. |
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Quinnipiack Valley Health District |
Phone. (203) 248-4528 |
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| © 2010, Quinnipiack Valley Health District. All rights reserved Web site design by SNP Technologies, Inc. | Privacy Statement |
and Programs
WHO SHOULD GET A FLU SHOT?
NEW ADULT HIGH DOSE VACCINE 
At a 2009 summit held by the President's Council of Advisors on Science, their overarching message was through behavior, individuals can have a potentially big impact on a flu season's severity. There are
• Wash your hands frequently and properly with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. This is one of the most important actions you can take to prevent the spread of illnesses in yourself and others. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective for removing germs (but not dirt.) 
• If you are sick with flu-like illness (defined as a fever of 100 degrees or higher and a cough or sore throat) stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine. The rest of the office or your child's school does not want your germs.