Health Officials Urge Santa Cruz Co. Residents To Get Flu Shot

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — County of Santa Cruz Public Health officials are asking all residents to get their flu vaccine early this year. Officials say the vaccine takes to weeks to become effective.

“Flu shots are the best way to protect yourself, your family, and the community from becoming seriously ill with the flu,” said County Health Officer, Dr. Arnold Leff.

Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue, according to health officials.

“Vaccination not only reduces the risk of catching the flu, it also reduces the chance that you’ll be hospitalized,” said Public Health Director of Nursing, Jennifer Herrera. “Even if it is not a perfect match for all of this year’s flu strains, the flu vaccine will provide some protection and reduce your chances of needing to be hospitalized if you do get sick.”

Health officials shared the following tips to help prevent the spread of the infection:

• Limit your contact with others and stay home from work or school if you are ill
• If you don’t have a tissue to cough into, cover your nose and mouth with your elbow or arm
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based rub
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

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