STOP THE FLU DEAD IN ITS TRACKS !

In 2009 the H1N1 "influenza virus", better known as the swine flu was the cause of the first global "flu" pandemic in more than 40 years and caused substantial illness, hospitalizations and deaths as reported by the CDC.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly "flu shot" as the first important step in protecting against being infected by the"influenza virus". The U.S. 2010-2011 seasonal "influenza vaccine" will protect against the "influenza" H3N2 virus, influenza B virus and the 2009 H1N1 swine flu virus that emerged last year.

Senior citizens, 65 years old and older are strongly encouraged to receive the 2010-2011 seasonal "flu vaccine" which includes the 2009 H1N1 "flu" virus.

While adults over 65 years of age are less likely to be infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus, those who do become infected are at a greater risk of having serious complications from their illness.

Manufacturers of the 2010-2011 'influenza vaccine' have begun shipping the vaccine to various depots and it is recommended that everyone 6 months of age and older receive an inoculation for this flu season. You are encouraged to consult with your primary physician regarding your influenza (flu) shot for the upcoming flu season.

A new type of "flu vaccine" the "Fluzone High-Dose", a seasonal Influenza Vaccine is available for seniors who are 65 years or older. Consult with your Primary Doctor to see if you are in need of this new vaccine.

There have been severe infections and deaths in every age group including senior citizens over the age of 65 who are at a very high risk for developing flu-related complications

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted in February 2010 favoring "universal" flu vaccinations in the United States.

ACIP voted to expand "flu shots" for the 2010-2011 flu season to include all persons 6 months of age and older.

This decision by ACIP to expand flu shots for everyone 6 months of age and older is supported by evidence that the "FLU SHOTS" are safe and effective.

Healthy adults with no previously identifiable risk factors may also come down with complications of "influenza" especially those adults between the ages of 19 to 49 years of age.

The ACIP identified another new segment of our population that are at a high risk of serious flu-related complications.

This new high risk group of people include those who are Morbidly Obese, Alaskan Natives and the American Indians.