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For immediate release: October 18, 2006 (06-165)
Contacts:
Jeff Smith, Communications Office
360-236-4072
Michele Perrin, Immunization
Program CHILD Profile 360-791-6724
OLYMPIA ¾ Flu season is approaching and vaccine is starting to become available in Washington. Getting vaccinated is one of the best things people can do to avoid getting the flu.
The Washington State Department of Health expects that there will be more flu vaccine available in the state than ever before. Some has already arrived, and the state expects to receive several more shipments in the coming weeks. Preservative free vaccine for children under three will be some of the last vaccine to arrive. The agency expects to receive some this month and a full order by mid- November.
“There is always some uncertainty about influenza vaccine supplies and distribution. We hope people won’t let that stop them from getting vaccinated.” says Secretary of Health, Mary Selecky. “It is especially important for parents to make sure that their children are immunized as soon as the flu vaccine is available. People might need to be patient and persistent, but there should be plenty of vaccine this year for everyone who wants it.”
Flu activity in Washington generally peaks in February or March, so a flu shot can be beneficial even if you get it in November, December or even later.
The Department of Health provides flu vaccine for children under 19 who are high risk or are household contacts of a high risk person. The department has ordered more than 266,000 doses, 27 percent more than was used last year. Some vaccine has arrived and is being distributed to local communities. More is expected in the next three to six weeks.
The state vaccine is provided to the patient at no cost; however, health care providers usually charge an office visit or administration fee. Adults should consult with their insurance carriers to check on coverage for flu vaccine.
Everyone can benefit from an annual influenza vaccine and for many people it’s critical. Influenza can strike anyone and is especially dangerous for young children and the elderly, who are at greater risk for complications from the flu. At best, catching the flu may result in fever, cough, and a few days lost from work or school. At its worst, flu can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.
Every year an average of 36,000 people in the United States die from flu-related illness and 200,000 people are hospitalized. “Many of these illnesses and deaths are avoidable,” said State Health Officer Dr. Maxine Hayes. “Vaccination reduces your risk of getting the flu and reduces the severity of the flu if you get it.”
Those at high risk for complications from the flu include anyone over 50; children 6-59 months of age; and children and adults with chronic medical conditions. Also at high risk are pregnant women and residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities. People living with or caring for a high risk person, including health-care providers, should also be vaccinated.
Babies from birth to six months of age have an extremely high rate of complications from flu. It is especially important that anyone who lives with or provides care for children in this age group be vaccinated, because these children are too young to be vaccinated.
People are urged to use their regular health care providers for immunizations. For help finding an immunization clinic, call the Family Healthy hotline at 1-800-322-2588, or your local health department. Adults can also check the American Lung Association Flu Shot Locator (http://flucliniclocator.org/).
The Department of Health Flu News Web site (http://www.doh.wa.gov/FluNews/) provides additional information on flu vaccine.
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