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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 12, 2007

It's Not Too Late for a Flu Shot
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

COLUMBUS - There is still time to be vaccinated against influenza. The flu typically peaks in January or later, which is why now may be the perfect time for a flu shot. A flu shot is the single best way to protect yourself and the people you love from getting the flu. Even if influenza has already hit your community, you can still benefit from vaccination.

"While the flu vaccine is important for all age groups, it is especially important that seniors 65 years and older get vaccinated because they are more likely to become sicker and experience complications if they do get sick," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the Ohio Department of Aging. "Seniors should make every effort to get vaccinated, especially since Medicare Part B covers the full cost of the shot."

Millions of Americans age 50 and older are in danger of catching the flu this season. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 36 percent of adults age 50-64, and about 60 percent of those 65 and older, are vaccinated against influenza each year.

A vaccination greatly decreases your chance of getting the flu and can lessen symptoms if you do get sick. Unvaccinated people are not only increasing their chances of getting sick, they are also increasing their chances of passing along the influenza virus to their parents, spouses, children, grandchildren, friends and co-workers.

The flu, which can include symptoms such as high fever, headache, coughing, nausea, weakness and muscle aches, can easily spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes near others.

"The flu shot is safe, effective and cannot cause the flu," added Riley. "Different viruses circulate each season, so it's critical to get a flu vaccine every year."

Flu vaccinations are available from a wide variety of sources, including your physician, county board of health, groceries and pharmacies. Contact your area agency on aging at 1-866-243-5678 for help finding resources in your community.

About ODA

The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.