Mineola, NY - In recognition of National Influenza Vaccination Week, December 3-9, Nassau County Department of Health advises residents that it is not too late to get a flu shot.
"Getting vaccinated is the single best way for people to protect not only themselves against the flu, but their loved ones as well,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein. “The influenza virus can be unpredictable and differ from year to year which is why it’s important to get vaccinated annually. With very few exceptions, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot each season.”
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness. There are certain people who are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications that can lead to hospitalization or even death. People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease, and adults 65 years of age and older.
The Nassau County Department of Health offers these everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of influenza and other germs:
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine.)
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
For additional information about influenza and the influenza vaccine visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/flu