LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Xochitl Mora,

Laredo, TX – The City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) wants everyone to protect themselves against the upcoming seasonal influenza (FLU) and pneumonia. We recommend that EVERYONE get vaccinated against seasonal FLU as soon as possible. Texas has already reported cases and leads the nation in positive cases.

 Getting vaccinated now is important as it takes two (2) weeks to get immunity. We also want to remind the public that during this there is an increase of other respiratory illnesses such as allergies and persons should take precautions, including getting vaccinated against flu to reduce illnesses and complications. We want to thank those that have started vaccination services such as both school districts.

 Who should get vaccinated? EVERYONE, but especially:

          Children 6 months and older

• Pregnant women
• People 50 years of age and older
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (diabetes, heart or lung disease, obesity, cancer)
• People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:   
  1. Health care workers
  2. Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
  3. Household contacts and home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated) and daycare employees

 What are FLU symptoms?
Flu is sudden and symptoms include:

 ·         Sudden fever (100.4° F or more)

 ·         Headache

 ·         Tiredness, sometimes extreme

 ·         Dry cough, Sore throat

 ·         Extreme Body aches

 Risks from Flu:

 In some persons, flu can cause serious complications, including bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma, diabetes or seriously infecting those that are immune-compromised.  Children and adults may develop sinus problems and ear infections. We also recommend Pneumococcal Vaccine to protect against pneumonia for anyone over 65 years of age.

 We also urge the public to practice prevention by:

 ·         Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it and wash your hands.

 ·         If you cough, cough into your elbow, sleeve, or into tissues.  Wash your hands.

 ·         Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.

 ·         Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

 ·         Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

 ·         Do not share personal items that may be contaminated with respiratory germs.

 What is pneumococcus pneumonia?

 Infection of lungs that can cause not only pneumonia, but ear and sinus infections, meningitis and a blood system infection. The vaccine protects against 13 types of bacterial infection.

 Where can I get Flu and Pneumonia shots?
At your doctor’s office, pharmacies, and clinics and at The City of Laredo Health Department’s Immunization Program located at 2600 Cedar Avenue, Laredo, Texas 78040.  Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Additional Clinic on Tuesdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 Flu and Pneumococcal Vaccine are $8.00 for children (18 years of age and under)

For all others, flu vaccine is $20.00 and pneumococcal vaccine for adults is $70 per person.  Both flu and pneumonia vaccines are free for Medicaid and Medicare Part B Recipients.

 Please bring your card.