Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Cook County Department of Public Health

Begin 2007 on a healthy note by getting your flu shot now. Vaccine is available through the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) to anyone 6 months of age and older and healthy enough to receive a flu immunization.

“Don’t be fooled into thinking flu season is over. Just because you didn’t get a vaccine in the fall doesn’t mean you can’t, or shouldn’t get one now,” said CCDPH chief operating officer, Stephen A. Martin, Jr., Ph.D., M.P.H. “We generally see the peak of flu season well after the holidays are over. Unfortunately there is still plenty of time to get sick from the flu.”

Typically, flu shots are given in the autumn months so that protection can last during an entire season. But getting a shot now will offer protection throughout the season which generally ends in April.

The vaccines are available immediately (until supplies last) at immunization clinics in Rolling Meadows, Maywood, Bridgeview,

Markham, and South Holland and are provided at no-cost to all Cook County residents by calling 708-492-2185 to set up an appointment.  Persons who are allergic to eggs or are sick with an infection or fever on the day of their appointment will not be immunized.

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs. Generally, the flu includes symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Flu is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person, primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The flu kills almost 36,000 people yearly in the United States, 90% of them age 65 and older.

“By protecting yourself with an immunization, you offer protection to those close to you. Get your flu shot now for the sake of your health and the health of others,” added Dr. Martin.

Call for an appointment: 708-492-2185. TDD: 708-492-2002.
Or log on: www.cookcountypublichealth.org.