Public Information Office
210 S. McDonald St. Suite 540
McKinney, TX  75069

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Leigh Hornsby
Public Information Officer
972-548-4772
publicrelations@co.collin.tx.us

September 05, 2003

Collin County Health Care Services to offer influenza vaccinations to adults

(McKinney, TX) - Collin County Health Care Services will begin offering influenza (flu) vaccinations Monday, September 8th. The clinic will be available to senior citizens and high-risk adults on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. until supplies last. The cost is $20 and Medicare Part B is accepted. Pneumonia shots will also be available for $22. The health care services clinic is located at 825 N. McDonald, Suite 130, McKinney, TX 75069.

What is influenza?

Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs that is one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season. Influenza is spread easily from person to person, primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Influenza may lead to hospitalization or even death, especially among the elderly. About 10% to 20% of the population contract influenza annually.

Prevention

There is a vaccine to protect against influenza; it is usually given in the fall (September through December) so that protection is conferred for the entire flu season. Because the influenza virus changes from year to year, it is important to get vaccinated with a new flu vaccine every year.

Who should get influenza vaccine?

· People 65 years of age or older.
· Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities.
· Adults and adolescents with chronic pulmonary or cardiovascular disorders, including asthma.
· Health care workers, care givers and others who might transmit influenza virus to persons at high-risk for complications from infection.
· People who are less able to fight infections because of a disease they are born with, infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), treatment with medications such as long-term steroids, and/or treatment for cancer with X-rays or medications.
· Adults and adolescents who require medical follow-up or hospitalizations during the preceding year because of chronic illnesses (including diabetes mellitus), kidney diseases, and blood cell diseases such as sickle cell anemia.
· Women who will be in the second or third trimester of pregnancy during flu season (December-March).
· Persons 6 months to 18 years of age who receive long-term aspirin therapy and therefore might be at risk for developing Reye syndrome after influenza.


For additional information about Collin County Health Care Services, visit the county website at: http://www.co.collin.tx.us

###