RENO - With flu activity starting to increase and family and friends gathering for the holidays, now is a great time to play it safe and get a flu vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Immunize Nevada, the Southern Nevada Immunization and Health Coalition, Walgreens and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield remind Nevadans that it's not too late to get an annual flu vaccine.
Vaccinate Nevada takes place this week in conjunction with National Influenza Vaccination Week, Dec. 8-14, an annual observance encouraging the importance of getting an annual flu vaccine for anyone 6 months and older.
"Influenza activity has been sporadic in Nevada and across the country. Getting a flu vaccine now is beneficial since flu activity usually peaks in January or later in the United States and can last as late as May," said Heidi Parker, Immunize Nevada executive director.
"Don't gamble with your health. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop for protection against influenza virus infection. As long as flu viruses are circulating, it's not too late to get vaccinated and there are many locations throughout the state still offering vaccines," she said.
While anyone can get the flu, some people are at greater risk for serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia, which can lead to hospitalization and even death.
For those at greater risk of complications, getting the flu vaccine is especially important. It's also important to get the vaccine if you care for anyone in one or more of the following high risk groups, or for babies younger than 6 months because they are too young to get the vaccine.
Those at risk include:
•People 65 years and older.
•Children younger than 5 years old, but especially children younger than 2 years old.
•Pregnant women.
•People with certain medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease.
To help prevent the spread of the virus: avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home if you're sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.[[In-content Ad]]
