Don’t get bitten by the bug, get your fl u vaccination
By Ellen Pothier
It’s not too late to get vaccinated, because the flu season can begin as early as October, but can last as late as May.
Influenza “the flu” is one of the leading causes of death for older Americans. It is important for people age 50 and older and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions to get their vaccination every year.
It’s also important for people over 65 and those under 65 with certain medical conditions to receive a pneumococcal vaccination. This type of vaccination protects against 23 types of pneumococcal infection, which can be very serious. Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
To find out where to get a flu vaccination, call your healthcare provider or local health department. You can also visit http://flu.masspro.org and get a list of flu vaccination clinics in your local area.
For more information about the flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/ or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/epii/fl u/fl u1.htm.
Ellen Pothier, MS, RN, is Beneficiary Outreach and Mediation Coordinator, Masspro
Editor’s Note: The MassPro website for locating a flu clinic and schedule in your town is an excellent tool. However, those without
ready access to the Internet wishing to find out about flu vaccination clinics in their community may contact Elder Services and ask for Information and Referral 499-0524 or, toll free 1-800-544-5242.
