By: Special to The Laredo Sun
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Also, an important rise in flu-like illness primarily in the student population but as well in the general community has been noticed.
In fact Laredo has peaked more flu-like illness now than during the peak season last year in December and January. However this is also occurring in other communities, it’s an early flu season which we is monitored, according the CLHD.
In addition physicians and the emergency rooms have reported including state epidemiology data, that there are other respiratory illnesses such para-influenza, rhinovirus, RSV and adenovirus, all combined with flu have made an impact on the respiratory health within the community.
While the CLHD continue to monitor flu through a surveillance program in schools and through the sentinel system with physicians and hospitals, Laredoans are urged to continue to take flu and respiratory precautions and get vaccinated.
On November 3, at the Park Ride the CLHD will host their annual drive through clinic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Vaccinations are especially important for:
- Children 6 months and older
- Pregnant women
- People 50 years of age and older
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
- People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
- People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
- Health care workers
- Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
- Household contacts and home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated) and daycare employees
Flu symptoms include:
- Sudden fever (100.4° F or more)
- Headache
- Tiredness, sometimes extreme
- Dry cough, Sore throat
- Extreme Body aches
Risks from FLU:
Flu can cause serious complications, including bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma, diabetes or seriously infecting those that are immunocompromised.
Children and adults may develop sinus problems and ear infections. Also, a Pneumococcal Vaccine to protect against pneumonia for anyone over 65 years of age is recommended.
Practice prevention by:
· Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it and wash your hands.
· If you cough, cough into your elbow, sleeve, or into tissues. Wash your hands.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
· Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
· Do not share personal items that may be contaminated with respiratory germs.
Where can I get FLU and Pneumonia shots ?
At your doctor’s office, pharmacies, and clinics and at:
City of Laredo Health Department’s Immunization Program
2600 Cedar Avenue, Laredo, Texas 78040
Monday - Friday (additional Clinic on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m).
8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Flu and Pneumococcal Vaccine is $8.00 for children (18 years of age and under)
All others $20/flu vaccine and Pneumonia vaccine for adults -$70 per person
Both flu and pneumonia free for Medicaid and Medicare Part B Recipients.
Please bring your card.
For more information, contact the City of Laredo Health Department Immunizations Clinic at (956) 795-4906 or Epidemiology at 795-4951.
Edited by: C.R.
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