For Immediate Release Date: October 2, 2015 Contact: Leslie Piotrowski (847) 377-8055 Carolyn Waller (847) 377-8099
The Lake
County Health Department/Community Health Center is encouraging residents to
get a flu shot this fall. Last year, six deaths and 49 intensive care unit
admissions were associated with complications brought on by influenza in Lake
County.
"Those
six months of age or older should get a flu shot, especially children younger
than 5, adults 65 years of age and older, and those with conditions such as
asthma or diabetes,” said Tony Beltran, the Health Department’s Executive
Director. “Influenza is a respiratory illness that is highly contagious and it
can take a severe toll on an individual’s health, keeping them away from work,
school or recreational opportunities. A flu shot not only protects you, but
also those around you.”
People
with flu can spread it to others up to about six feet away. Most experts think
that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough,
sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who
are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might
also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and
then touching their own mouth or nose.
The
Health Department is encouraging residents to remember these important health
recommendations:
-
The
most important step in protection against the flu is getting an annual flu
vaccine.
-
Take
everyday preventive steps, such as staying away from sick people and washing
your hands to reduce the spread of germs.
-
If
you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading
influenza to others.
The Health
Department is offering the flu vaccine by appointment only at the Immunizations
Clinic at 2303 Dodge Avenue in Waukegan. The flu vaccine is available through a
needle or a nasal spray. While anyone 6 months of age or older can receive the
shot, the nasal spray vaccine (LAIV) is for healthy persons 2 to 49 years of
age who are not pregnant. A high-dose vaccine is available for the elderly and
a vaccine manufactured without the use of eggs is available for those with egg
allergies. The cost of the flu vaccine for people 18 years of age and younger
is covered by All Kids and Medicaid.
Medicaid covers the vaccine cost for some adults and Medicare part B
covers the cost of the flu vaccine for all card holders. For more specific
information visit: http://health.lakecountyil.gov/Population/Pages/Influenza.aspx or contact the Health Department
at: (847) 377-8470.
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