Time To Roll Up Your Sleeves For Flu Season

By THE TAMPA TRIBUNE | Tbo.com
Published: October 06, 2007

Flu season has begun, and can continue through February or later. Influenza (the flu) is a contagious and potentially serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death.

'Flu vaccines decrease the chance of getting seasonal influenza, thereby protecting ourselves and others,' Pasco County Health Department Director David Johnson said in a news release.

The health department will begin offering shots Oct. 15. There are five Pasco County Health Department centers:

•10841 Little Road, New Port Richey, (727) 861-5260

•4717 Airport Road, Zephyrhills, (813) 782-1740

•11511 Denton Ave., Hudson, (727) 863-2444

•13941 15th St., Dade City, (352) 521-1450

•4135 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land O' Lakes, (813) 558-5173

Residents may call the health department nearest their homes to get information about appointments. The cost of a flu shot at the health department is $25. Pneumonia vaccines also will be available. Bring your Medicare card, health insurance cards and a photo ID if paying by check. Credit cards are not accepted.

Health officials recommend flu shots for everyone, and especially for individuals in the following groups:

•Individuals age 50 and older

•Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

•Persons with chronic medical conditions and their household contacts

•Children 6 months to 5 years old, their household contacts and out-of-home caregivers

•Pregnant women or women who will be pregnant during flu season

•Health care personnel

•Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children younger than 6 months old.

For information, visit www.doh.state.fl.us/chdpasco /pasco.html.