LaredoBuzz.Com

Laredo, TX – As the fall season approaches, the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) is expecting an increase in seasonal influenza (FLU) cases.  Because of this we are recommending that EVERYONE get vaccinated against seasonal flu now.

The public should come in as soon as possible for the seasonal flu vaccine in order to avoid long wait times and congestion.  Additionally, the CLHD would like for the public to be fully protected from seasonal flu by the time the H1N1 vaccine becomes available.  If people wait to get vaccinated there is a chance that they can be exposed to both the seasonal flu virus and the H1N1 virus at the same time.   The complications of these two viruses together is not known yet so GET IMMUNIZED NOW, DON’T WAIT!

 Why should you get vaccinated?

 According to the CDC approximately 36,000 people die nationwide of flu related causes each year.  The seasonal FLU vaccine is the most effective measure towards reducing the impact of influenza, especially for those at higher risk.  In particular those at high-risk are more susceptible to respiratory complications and infections sending many to the emergency room. These persons are especially encouraged to obtain their FLU vaccine in order to prevent complications such as pneumonia, chronic respiratory distress and cardiovascular complications especially during the winter months.

Who should get vaccinated? EVERYONE, but especially:

• Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday
• Pregnant women
• People 50 years of age and older
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
• 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), daycare employees

 What are the symptoms of Flu?  “Flu” comes on suddenly, Symptoms include:

 -Sudden fever (100.4° F or more)
 -Headache
 -Tiredness, sometimes extreme
 -Dry cough, Sore throat
 -Extreme Body aches

Know the risks from the 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 those that are immunocompromised.  Children and adults may develop sinus problems and ear infections. We also recommend getting your Pneumococcal Vaccine to protect against pneumonia for anyone over 65 years of age.

 Where can I get FLU and Pneumonia shot: at your doctor’s office, clinics and at:

                      City of Laredo Health Department’s Immunizations Program

(2600 Cedar)

Monday through Friday

8:00 am to 5:00 pm.; Thursday 5-7 pm.

or in health department WIC clinics (Call for times)

 The cost is $18.00/vaccine for both children and adults

It is free for Medicare Part B Recipients. Please bring your card.