Prevent the Flu This Year-Receive Your Vaccination

Deschutes County Oregon -- 9/28/2011 --

Flu season can begin as early as October. Vaccination is the most effective way to avoid catching the flu virus and the best way to protect the community from illness. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone-6 months and older- receive an annual influenza vaccination. Deschutes County Health Services offers flu vaccine for children 6 months to 18 years of age.

Children 6 months through 8 years may need two doses of flu vaccine, depending on previous flu vaccine history, so it is important to talk to your provider. Flu vaccine is available through local health care providers as well as most pharmacies (for people 11 years and older). Call the Deschutes County Health Services Department at (541) 322-7400 to schedule a flu vaccine for your child.

The 2011-12 seasonal flu vaccine protects against the same strains as last year: H1N1, H3N2 and Influenza B. People who had a flu vaccination last year should also get a flu shot this year as immunity may have worn off. Locally, flu season peaks in January and February but the virus is unpredictable and can begin as early as October. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza, getting your vaccine now will help protect you throughout flu season.

In addition to vaccination, these preventive measures can help stop flu and other diseases: Cover your cough and sneeze, wash your hands often-use soap and warm water, stay home when you’re sick-protect others at school and work by staying home at least 24-hours after a fever (100+ degrees) ends, keep surfaces clean-flu germs can live for hours on hard surfaces. Make sure your home and workspace are wiped down frequently, especially where children are playing.

Each flu season is unique, but it’s estimated that on average, approximately 5 percent to 20 percent of U.S. residents get the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized each year for flu-related complications and about 36,000 Americans die on average, per year from flu complications. For more information about influenza, visit www.flu.oregon.gov.