Influenza (Flu)
Vaccine
The best way to prevent the flu, and its complications, is by getting the flu vaccine each year.
The Health Department gives the flu vaccine which does not contain preservatives, including thimerosal. The vaccine offers protection against three different flu virus strains that research shows will be most common during this flu season: two influenza (flu) A virus strains and one influenza B virus strain. A high dose flu vaccine will be given to those 65 years of age and older. It is recommended that you wait for 15 minutes after being vaccinated so you can be observed for any reaction.
The vaccine is free of charge and available for those 6 months and older. For those with Medicare, Medicaid, or private health insurance, please bring your health insurance card.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu virus. The protection you get from the flu vaccine will last throughout the flu season. Talk to your doctor before getting the flu shot if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients in the vaccine, or if you are not feeling well (talk to your doctor about your symptoms).
About the Flu
The flu is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others. Getting the flu vaccine is the main way to prevent the flu and its complications.
The flu is not just a bad cold! It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Anyone can get sick from the flu. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. Everyone six months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year. Besides getting your flu vaccine, follow these good health habits to help prevent getting and spreading the flu: avoid close contact with people who are sick; stay home when you are sick; cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; wash your hands often; avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; and practice other good health habits, such as get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Resources
For more information about the flu vaccine call 845-364-2534.
For information about the flu and the flu vaccine visit these websites:
- CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- New York State Department of Health
- Flu activity in New York State
- Flu Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) in multiple languages
For information about handwashing and disease prevention, visit the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) website.