Bismarck Burleigh Public Health (BBPH) reminds everyone of the importance of receiving the flu vaccine as part of National Influenza Vaccination Week, which is being observed from Dec. 6 to 12.
There is enough flu vaccine available this year for anyone who wants to be vaccinated. It is recommended that everyone ages 6 months and older be vaccinated, regardless of health status. It’s important to remember that getting vaccinated not only protects you but everyone around you as well. Influenza vaccinations are available at Bismarck Burleigh Public Health by appointment. Please call 701-355-1540.
Forty cases of influenza have been reported to the NDDoH so far this season. The flu typically does not peak in North Dakota until after the New Year, but the past two years have demonstrated early influenza activity. Now is a great time for people to get vaccinated if they have not done so already.
The flu vaccine protects against flu viruses that research indicates will cause the most illness that year. Protection from vaccination declines over time, so it’s important to get vaccinated each season. Yearly vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself and your family each flu season.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone be vaccinated against the flu, especially the following:
• Children age 6 months through 18 years
• Adults ages 50 and older
• Residents of long-term care facilities
• Pregnant women
• American Indians
• People of any age who have long-term health problems, such as:
o Heart disease
o Lung diseaseo Kidney disease
o Diabeteso Asthma
o Anemiao Weakened immune systems due to HIV/AIDS and cancer treatments
o Breathing problems due to neuromuscular disorderso Morbid obesity
People who could spread the disease to those at high risk – such as health care workers, people who care for family members or other sick people in their home and household contacts also should be vaccinated.
Contact your local public health unit, healthcare provider, or pharmacist for information about vaccine availability. Currently, FluMist is not available for children or adults at BBPH. For any other details about influenza, visit www.ndflu.com.
REMEMBER: The flu vaccine can protect not only you but everyone around you.