Flu News

 Get Ready for Flu Season

The months of October through March are usually considered the official “flu vaccine season.” This year, however, influenza immunizations started earlier.

Plan on Two Flu Shots
Experts say that many people will need to get two different influenza vaccines: one for seasonal flu and the other for H1N1 (swine flu). Seasonal flu vaccine clinics began in early September.

As for H1N1, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services advised healthcare providers to vaccinate older adults only after high-risk groups are immunized. (These include children aged 6 months through 18 years old, young adults from age 19 through 24 years old, and pregnant women.)

Don’t Delay
Make plans to get your seasonal flu vaccination now!

Where Can You Get Your
Flu Shots?
The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services has an Internet site that allows everyone to locate flu clinics sponsored by local health departments, as well as pharmacies, supermarkets, and other stores. For clinic locations, as well as general flu information, go to: http://www.nj.gov/health/flu/.

How Do You Know If You Might Have The Flu?
Typical flu symptoms include:

• Fever (usually high)
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Dry cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (sometimes)

Benefits of Antiviral Drugs
The single best way to avoid the flu is to get vaccinated. If you do get it, antiviral drugs
can make the illness milder. Influenza antiviral drugs work best when started within two days. Even after 48 hours, treatment should still be considered for people at high risk for influenza-related complications. Ask your doctor about what is best for you.

Where Can You Learn More?

Stop the spread of germs that make you and others sick!