Murray Discusses Free Flu Vaccines at Levittown Senior Center

Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Councilman Gary Hudes believe it is important for all senior citizens to have themselves vaccinated to avoid contracting the flu virus.

To that end, Supervisor Murray visited the Levittown Senior Center on Monday to talk about free flu vaccines being provided courtesy of the Town of Hempstead, Nassau University Medical Center and South Nassau Communities Hospital.

The supervisor announced that 1,000 flu vaccines will be made available for people aged 60 or older. Participating hospitals will bill seniors’ insurance companies; there will be no out-of-pocket cost and no co-payment will be charged.

“Senior citizens are at a higher risk of suffering complications stemming from the flu, and providing flu vaccines with no out-of-pocket cost will help keep our golden-aged residents happy and healthy,” said Murray. “I urge all our seniors to take advantage of this great flu vaccination program offered by the Town of Hempstead in partnership with the Nassau University Medical Center and South Nassau Communities Hospital.”

“Influenza is a serious disease, and people of any age can get it," said said Joseph A. Quagliata, president and CEO at South Nassau Communities Hospital. "To protect yourself, as well as your family and your friends, I strongly urge all residents to get the flushot.”

Senior citizens account for more than 90 percent of flu-related deaths each year, as well as 50 percent of flu-related hospitalizations. While most people's flu symptoms are mild, seniors can suffer serious complications, such as pneumonia, ear and sinus infections and bronchitis. Other health issues, including asthma, heart disease, blood disorders, endocrine disorders and obesity, can make a person more susceptible to complications from the flu.

Flu vaccinations are also being given at the Franklin Square Senior Center on November 22 and the Merrick Senior Center on November 29. Both sessions run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 250 flu vaccines will be available at these locations. You must register at least one week in advance.

For more information, contact the Town of Hempstead Department of Senior Enrichment at (516) 485-8100.

Information from a Town of Hempstead press release was used in this report.