Flu Vaccine Available through Atlantic General Health System offices
09-27-2010
Atlantic General Hospital and Health System announced today that they have
received their supply of this year’s seasonal flu vaccine. Flu shots
are available to patients of the health system by making an appointment
at any one of their primary care offices.
It is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that anyone
at increased risk for influenza-related complications receive the seasonal
flu vaccine each year. This year’s serum contains vaccine to protect
against the H1N1 virus as well as other influenza strains identified as
having a considerable impact on human populations this flu season.
Those at increased risk include:
• persons 65 years and older
• nursing home residents and other chronic care facilities
• adults and children with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or
cardiovascular systems, including children with asthma
• people with metabolic diseases such as diabetes
• those with blood diseases like sickle cell anemia, or impaired immunity
Children and teenagers on long-term aspirin therapy and anyone working
or living with someone in a high-risk category should also get a flu shot
every year.
Flu vaccine is covered by Medicaid and Medicare and many private insurance
plans. For a complete list of Atlantic General Health System providers
that have available vaccine, individuals should visit Atlantic General’s
web site at www.atlanticgeneral.org/flu.
The free community flu clinics offered by Atlantic General Hospital will
be scheduled for later in October and November. Updates about flu vaccine
availability from Atlantic General Hospital and Health System can also
be accessed through the flu hotline at 410-641-9FLU.