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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2007
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San Mateo County Health Department
Contact: Beverly Thames, (650) 573-3935
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HEALTH OFFICIALS ADVISE: "NOW IS THE TIME TO PREVENT THE FLU"
SAN MATEO, Calif. -- This year, health officials are anticipating a plentiful supply of influenza vaccine. San Mateo County has released its schedule of flu vaccination clinics for persons 60 years of age and above, and other adults with chronic medical conditions. No appointment is necessary, a donation of $5 is requested, and Medicare is not accepted. To get a complete schedule, visit www.smhealth.org/flu or call the flu clinic hotline at (650) 573-3927.
"Annual flu immunization is especially important for adults aged 50 and older, young children 6 months to 5 years of age, and for anyone with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and liver disease. These folks are particularly susceptible to developing pneumonia from influenza, and this can lead to hospitalization or even death," said Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County Health Officer. "Others who should consider getting a flu shot are pregnant women, healthcare workers, and caregivers or household contacts of seniors and infants younger than 6 months of age."
For those who cannot attend or do not qualify for a County-sponsored flu shot clinic, you may find flu vaccine through:
To stop the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses, Morrow encouraged San Mateo County residents to take the following basic steps:
- Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading illness to co-workers and friends.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to get rid of most germs and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest and exercise.
The San Mateo County Health Department offers a brochure entitled "What you can do to stop the flu" free of charge to County residents. The brochure offers tips on how to prevent the flu and how to care for someone who is sick with the flu. To get a copy of the brochure, call the Health Department at (650) 372-8572 or visit www.smhealth.org/flu.
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