Napa County Residents Urged To Get Flu Shots Early In Season

NAPA VALLEY, CA — From the County of Napa: Public health officials around the Bay Area are announcing that influenza season is beginning.

Because the flu is unpredictable and the vaccine takes two weeks to become fully effective, Napa County Public Health officials urge everyone six months and older to get vaccinated early in the season. It is important to get vaccinated prior to the circulation of influenza in the community. Ensuring timely flu shots can prevent a disease that hospitalizes 200,000 Americans every year.

“A flu shot now, prior to widespread illness, increases your chances of staying healthy,” said Dr. Karen Relucio, Napa County Public Health Officer. “The flu vaccine is safe and effective. Please ensure you and your loved ones are protected during this flu season.”

Residents can get flu vaccine from the regular healthcare provider, a pharmacy or at a free flu vaccine clinic provided by Napa County Public Health.

The vaccine keeps people protected for many months, but not forever. Also the strains of influenza change over time, so it’s important to get vaccinated every year. While everyone six months and older should get vaccinated, it is especially important for pregnant women, children younger than five, adults 65 and older, and those with chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes.

In addition to getting the vaccine, public health officials advise individuals to take the following steps to protect themselves and loved ones from influenza:

· Cover cough and sneezes with a tissue or use your elbow
· Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth
· Wash hands often and thoroughly with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
· Stay home when sick
· Stay home until symptom-free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medications

Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue. People at higher risk of severe disease who show flu symptoms should contact their medical provider. Medical providers may prescribe antiviral medications that reduce the severity and duration of illness. Antibiotics are not effective against the flu.

Residents are encouraged to contact their health care provider to get a flu shot. The vaccine is also available at pharmacies, retail stores, and is offered by some employers.

To see the 2017 free flu vaccine clinic schedule visit the Napa County Public Health flu vaccine web page. To find a flu vaccine across the US, visit the Vaccine Finder.

For more information about influenza, visit the California Department of Public Health influenza web page.

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