Deschutes Co. offers flu-prevention tips
Flu season is just around the corner. Vaccination is the most effective way to avoid catching the flu virus, and the best way to protect yourself and your community from illness. Here is the very latest flu information for you and your family, from Deschutes County health officials.
WHO SHOULD RECEIVE FLU VACCINE? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone age 6 months and older should receive an annual influenza vaccination. Children 6 months through 8 years-old may need two doses depending on previous flu vaccine history, so it is important to talk to your health provider. A seasonal flu vaccination is especially recommended for people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, people living or caring for babies six months and younger, and all health care workers.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE BE VACCINATED? Each year, scientists determine the three flu strains that are likely to cause the most disease and include them in the flu vaccination for that season. The 2012-13 seasonal flu shot protects against: H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B. People should get a flu vaccine every year to protect themselves. Locally, flu season peaks in January and February but can begin as early as October and is unpredictable. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza, getting your vaccine as soon as possible will help protect you throughout this flu season.
WHERE CAN I GET MY VACCINE? Flu vaccine is available through local health care providers as well as most pharmacies (for people 11 years and older). Deschutes County Health Services is also offering flu vaccine for children 6 months to 18 years-old. Call (541) 322-7400 to schedule a flu vaccine appointment for your child.
PREVENT GETTING THE FLU: 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) subsides. Clean surfaces often. Flu germs can live for hours on hard surfaces, especially where children are playing. ##
Each flu season is unique, but it is 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 on influenza, visit www.flu.oregon.gov.
