This week's LCDPH flu fact

[December 30, 2009]  Many have noticed the spread of the H1N1 flu decreasing lately, and you may be asking whether getting the H1N1 vaccine is still important. What many don’t know is that flu season typically lasts through May and that past pandemics have occurred in waves. In other words, it’s possible that we will see another increase in H1N1 or seasonal flu in the months ahead.

Below are some useful tips provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for you to share with your family and friends as you celebrate the holiday season.

3 simple steps to a healthy New Year

1. Add the vaccine to your wish list -- Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. The H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines are currently available at the Logan County Department of Public Health Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. to anyone interested in protecting themselves from the influenza virus.

2. Be a germ stopper -- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Also, stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

3. Check the facts and stay informed -- Visit Flu.gov regularly for the latest information. Heard a rumor? Visit "Myths vs. Facts" to run a fact check.

The 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is made the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine, including the president, first lady and their children.

For more information, visit www.flu.gov and www.lcdph.org or call the Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Department of Public Health]

The "flu fact" announcements are sponsored by the Logan County Department of Public Health and the Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition.

Previous postings

• Dec. 16

• Dec. 2

• Nov. 18

• Nov. 11

• Oct. 21

• Oct. 14

• Oct. 7

• Sept. 30

• Sept. 24