For more information contact:
For more information contact Karen Bishop at 607-274-6604 or Theresa Lyczko at 274-6714
National Influenza Immunization Week — December 5 to December 11, 2010
November 30, 2010 – (Ithaca, NY) National Influenza Immunization Week highlights the importance of flu vaccination for the best protection against the flu. And receiving a flu vaccination in December or later will still provide protection this flu season. Karen Bishop, Supervising Community Health Nurse noted that as the busy holiday season approaches, people who haven’t gotten a flu shot yet often take if off of their “to do” list. She said, “I urge everyone who hasn’t been immunized to get a flu shot to protect themselves, their family and friends from the flu this holiday season and during the winter months. And before you head out to do errands, stop by the Health Department on Saturday, December 4 between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. for a flu shot.”
The 2010–11 seasonal flu vaccine provides protection against the H1N1 virus as well as two other circulating viruses—the A/H3N2 and an influenza B virus. There is plenty of vaccine available. And it is important to be vaccinated this flu season even if you’ve received the H1N1 late last season. Immunity wanes over time and you won’t be protected against the two other circulating strains if you’re not vaccinated during the 2010–11 flu season.
In observance of National Influenza Immunization Week, The Tompkins County Health (TCHD) Department has scheduled flu clinics at its location at 55 Brown Road (near the airport). Everyone six months of age and older is welcome to come to the health department—no appointment necessary. TCHD will continue to provide flu vaccinations until the supply is depleted.
Walk-In Flu Clinics
- Saturday, December 4, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Monday, December 6, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, December 7, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
- Thursday, December 9, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday, December 10, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
The Health Department bills Medicaid and Medicare Part B. The cost is $35 for people 19 years of age and above payable by cash or check. Flu shots for children are free.
Basic prevention practices are always important to keep in mind to prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory diseases.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol based sanitizer.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue during coughs and sneezes; discard the tissue.
- Keep your hands away from your face, eyes, mouth and nose.
- Clean frequently used surfaces such as door knobs, telephones, keyboards.
- Stay home from school, work, and social engagements if you have flu symptoms to protect others.
For more information call 607-274-6609 or go to www.tompkins-co.org/flu or www.cdc.gov/flu
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