NEWS RELEASE

TOMPKINS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Alice Cole, RN, MSE – Public Health Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact Karen Bishop at 274-6614 or Theresa Lyczko at 274-6714

 

Tompkins County Health Department Announces County Flu Clinics

Ithaca, NY (October 9, 2007)—Tompkins County Health Department will hold flu clinics in eight locations in the County from November 1 through November 15. The Department will begin making appointments for the clinics on October 9.

November 1 – Dryden VFW and Groton Center Village Court
November 5 – Trumansburg American Legion
November 6 – Women’s Community Building (Election Day)
November 7 – Slaterville Fire Hall
November 8 – Lifelong and Newfield Fire Hall
November 15 – Shops at Ithaca Mall (formerly Pyramid Mall)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that seasonal influenza (flu) usually does not peak until January or February. Influenza peaks during the early months of the year in Tompkins County. Therefore, receiving a vaccination during October, November or later will provide protection during the flu season.

The Health Department welcomes all adults 19 years of age and older to its flu clinics. Children and their caregivers may obtain a flu shot at the health department by calling for an appointment. Karen Bishop, Supervising Community Health Nurse urges everyone over six months of age to get a flu shot. “We can protect ourselves and the people we live and work with by getting a flu shot and staying healthy this winter. Call your health care provider or contact the health department about getting immunized.”

Many local health care providers, schools, colleges, and businesses are collaborating on a community wide initiative to promote flu immunization and to encourage prevention practices. Look for the “Be Flu Safe Tompkins County” reminders at a variety of community locations.

The Health Department will begin making appointments for the clinics on October 9. Those interested in making an appointment for a flu shot may go the website: www.tompkins-co.org/flu and make their appointment online anytime or call 274-6609 Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. beginning October 9.

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