Henrico 2009-2010 Flu Information

People at high risk include those 50 years of age or older; people with chronic cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, including asthma; people with diabetes and other chronic metabolic diseases, kidney dysfunction, blood disorders or immune system problems.

An annual flu shot is also encouraged for healthy children 6 months through 18 years of age and their household contacts. As always, people who provide essential community services are recommended to receive the influenza vaccine. The vaccine takes about two weeks after getting the shot to become effective.

Information regarding influenza illness and vaccine can be found on the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) website.

• For the CDC's "Take 3 Steps to Fight the Flu" click here. This site contains information about how to protect yourself from influenza.
• For a printable information sheet on flu vaccine facts click here
• Want to know how to tell if you have a cold or flu? Click here.

To find flu clinics in your area go to FluClinicLocator.org. This site is maintained by the American Lung Association.

The Virginia Department of Health suggests the following to reduce the spread of the flu:

• Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing; dispose of the tissue immediately and wash hands thoroughly.
• Frequently wash hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
• Rinse and dry hands with a disposable towel. Use towel to turn off the faucet.
• Stay home from work or school for 5-7 days if you have flu like symptoms.
• Refrain from visiting a nursing home if you have flu like symptoms
• In addition, hospitals and clinicians should continue to report any clusters of respiratory illness to the local health department.

To contact a public health nurse at Henrico County Health Department for more vaccine information call Shirley Bakka at 804-501-4521 or Joane Wilkins at 804-652-3167.