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Influenza Vaccinations
This year will mark the sixth year that
HomeCall has given flu shots to their employees, patients and the public. Ten
thousand doses will be given out this flu season. The call for vaccinations this
year has risen because of the outbreak of the Swine Flu (N1H1). Many have come
for the first time to clinics given by HomeCall across the states of Oklahoma and
Texas.
Many of our locations have set up numerous clinics with a big turnout. The need
for each area is demanding and HomeCall has risen to that demand. Although there are
many flu shot clinics going on in each area by different companies, this has in
no way slowed down the clinics or reduced the number of people calling and
wanting shots.
HomeCall desires to obtain the Swine Flu (N1H1) vaccine soon to make it available to
their patients and employees.
The flu vaccine is safe. There are very few side effects. If you got the flu
shot, your arm may be sore for a few days. You may have a fever, feel tired or
have sore muscles for a short time.
The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get the influenza vaccine. You
should get the vaccine when it becomes available each fall, but you can also get
it any time throughout the flu season. The vaccine is available by shot. The
vaccines work by exposing your immune system to the flu virus. Your body will
build up antibodies to the virus to protect you from getting the flu. The flu
shot contains dead viruses.
You can also reduce your risk of catching the flu by washing your hands
frequently, which stops the spread of germs. Eating healthy, exercising and
getting enough sleep also play a part in preventing the flu because they help
boost your immune system.
If you are sick, make sure that you cover your mouth when you cough and wash
your hands often to prevent giving the flu to others.
Some people who get the vaccine will still get the flu, but they will usually
get a milder case than people who aren't vaccinated. The vaccine is especially
recommended for people who are more likely to get really sick from flu-related
complications.
Flu vaccinations are being offered by HomeCall Home Health in an effort to protect against an outbreak in our
area. It is not too early to protect against the flu virus. Each year the flu
season can begin as early as October and last as late as May. Don’t take any
chances with you and your loved ones health, get immunized!
The CDC and State Department of Health are
urging everyone, especially seniors and young children to receive the
vaccination as soon as possible. Each year the flu kills over 36 thousand people
across the United States, with up to 20% of the population contracting the flu.
And most are over 65. Hundreds of thousands more over the age of 65 are
hospitalized suffering from influenza every year.
To get your flu shot or for more
information, call HomeCall Home Health at 1-800-256-4434. Supplies are
limited and will be given on a first come first serve basis. Protect you and
loved ones by getting the flu vaccine.
Last updated: 10-6-2009
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