Protect yourself and those around you--get a flu shot

DUPAGE COUNTY—With National Influenza Vaccination Week being observed from December 2-8, 2012, the DuPage County Health Department reminds residents about the importance of getting an annual flu shot.

National Influenza Vaccination Week is observed each year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to raise awareness of the health benefits of flu shots and urge people to get vaccinated in December, January and even later. Flu season can last as late as May. Once vaccinated, you can enjoy the holiday season knowing that you have taken the single best step to protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu.

Flu shots are available throughout DuPage County at physician offices, pharmacies, grocery stores, quick care clinics and other locations. The CDC says there is an ample supply of flu vaccine this season throughout the United States. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year.

Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu and spread the virus to others. Over the years, hundreds of millions of people in the United States have safely received seasonal flu vaccines.

The Health Department recommends a flu shot as your best protection against flu viruses. People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease and lung disease and people 65 years and older.

It’s also important to get the vaccine if you care for anyone in one or more of those high risk groups, or for babies younger than six months because they are too young to get the vaccine.

DuPage County residents are also reminded that good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.

To find the nearest location where you and your family can get vaccinated, use the Flu Vaccine Finder on the home page of the Health Department’s website: http://www.dupagehealth.org

For more information on the DuPage County Health Department, follow us on Twitter @DuPageHD or become a fan on Facebook.

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