Release Date: October 9, 2008
Contact: Christine Patmon, Metro Health Public Relations Manager, 207-8638
Now is the Time – Protect Yourself and Loved Ones Against the Flu
Metro Health to focus on children and others at high risk; working with partners to insure all persons are protected
Children ages six months to 18 years of age are among the high risk groups Metro Health will vaccinate against influenza (the flu) this season as the department works with its community partners to insure people of all ages are protected. Providing flu vaccinations to all children is consistent with the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that children ages five – 18 should now be vaccinated annually in addition to those six months to five years old.
Two Metro Health clinics began offering the potentially life-saving shots this week to those individuals who have an increased risk of influenza infection or complications. Individuals considered at risk include the following:
All children ages 6 months to 18 years old
All persons age 50 or older
Anyone at risk for medical complications from influenza or more likely to require
medical care, i.e. people diagnosed with diabetes, asthma, or HIV/AIDS, as well as
those who have recently received radiation or chemotherapy
All persons who live with or care for persons at high risk, including those who care for
children less than 6 months of age
The vaccination fee is $25. However, children who present a valid Medicaid or CHIP card will not be charged. Other children qualifying for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program can receive their flu shot for $10. Medicare Part B and several Medicare supplement plans also will be accepted.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness usually occurring during late
fall through early spring. It affects anywhere from five percent to one-fifth of the U.S.
population every year, leads to nearly 36,000 deaths, and results in more than 200,000 people being hospitalized. Getting a flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the viral disease and its spread to others.
“The most effective strategy for preventing influenza is annual vaccination. People can reduce their likelihood of getting the flu by up to 90 percent just by receiving the vaccine. This year’s recommendations from the CDC make the point that nearly everyone should get the vaccine to help protect themselves, their family members and others in our community,” said Assistant Director Dr. Bryan Alsip.
Metro Health recommends all adults and children see their primary care physician to get the flu vaccination. For those who do not have a doctor and are in the high risk categories, flu shots are available at these Metro Health clinics for the respective age groups:
Ages 6 months and older
Main Immunization Clinic
345 W. Commerce
207-8894
Ages 6 months to 18 years only
Goodwill Center Clinic
727 NW Loop 410 (at Blanco)
525-0059
Please note: the Goodwill clinic will be closed on Monday, October 13.
All others are advised to visit their provider or one of these community partners:
CentroMed
Communicare
Costco
CVS
HEB
Texas MedClinic
University Health System
Walgreens
WellMed Medical Group
Anyone with computer or mobile internet access can locate a local flu vaccine provider by visiting one of these sites: www.flucliniclocator.org or www.findaflushot.com.
For more information, call Vivian Flores at 207-2868.
