Protect Yourself From Getting The Flu Over The Holidays, Get Vaccinated!

BINGHAMTON, NY - The holiday season is upon us and what better gift to give yourself than the gift of health so that you can enjoy the holidays. If you haven't had a chance to get your flu shot yet this year, you still have time. The Broome County Health Department will hold its last flu vaccination clinic for 2007 on Wednesday, December 12, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

“The influenza (flu) vaccine supply is plentiful this year, and we encourage everyone take advantage of the protection that the influenza vaccine provides,” says Claudia Edwards, Public Health Director for the Broome County Health Department. After receiving the influenza vaccine it usually takes up to two weeks for antibodies to build up in the body and provide protection against the influenza infection.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The symptoms of influenza may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, chills and muscle aches. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

Every year in the United States, on average:

• 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu;
• more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and;
• about 36,000 people die from flu.

The cost for the flu vaccine is $30. The pneumonia shot is also available for Medicare Part B recipients aged 65 and older. There will be no out of pocket fee for the flu or pneumonia shots for Medicare Part B recipients. Individuals on Medicare must present all insurance cards to staff at the clinic. If you have signed up with a Medicare Advantage Plan you need to go to you primary care provider for the flu shot or be prepared to pay by cash or check. Some examples of Medicare Advantage programs are: Todays Options-American Progressive, Excellus Medicare Blue PPO, Aetna Golden Medicare, and CDPHP Medicare Choice.

Remember, the best protection against getting the flu is getting the flu vaccine. Reduce your chances of getting the flu over the holiday season, get vaccinated. For more information on influenza and the influenza vaccine visit the Centers for Disease Control website at www.cdc.gov/flu.

CONTACT:
Diane O'Hora, Supervising Public Health Educator
Broome County Health Department: 607.778.3921
email: dohora@co.broome.ny.us

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Published Date: 12-11-2007