H1N1 Flu Activity is on the Rise in the Community
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 9, 2014
Contact
Julie Pryde, Administrator
(217) 531-5369 /
Amy Roberts, Public Relations
(217) 531-4264 /
H1N1 Flu Activity is on the Rise in the Community
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Encourages Flu Vaccination for Everyone Six Months and Older
Champaign, IL – Influenza activity is on the rise in this community. The ChampaignUrbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is encouraging everyone to protect themselves and their families by getting a flu shot now. “H1N1 has been reported in Champaign County,” said Julie A. Pryde, Administrator of Champaign-Urbana Public Health District.
“There have been H1N1-flu hospitalizations as well.”
The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting widespread influenza activity in Illinois with 122 flu-related intensive care unit hospitalizations and six flu-related intensive care unit deaths. IDPH expects to see an increase in the number of hospitalizations and deaths.
So far this season, 2009 H1N1 viruses have been most common. The 2009 H1N1 viruses have circulated as a seasonal flu virus worldwide since it emerged in 2009, causing a pandemic. During the pandemic, younger adults and children, particularly people with chronic medical conditions and pregnant women, were harder hit by H1N1 compared with adults aged 65 and older. If the H1N1 virus continues to circulate widely, illness may disproportionately affect young and middle-aged adults this season.
“The single best way to prevent flu is to get a flu vaccination every year,” said Pryde. “The good news is this year’s flu shot includes protection against H1N1. If you have already had your flu shot this season, great! If you have not had one this year, get it now. It can take up to two weeks to get full immunity from the flu shot.”
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is still providing flu vaccinations on a walk-in basis Monday through Friday between 8:30 – 11:30 AM and 1:00 – 4:30 PM.
CUPHD accepts private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, Visa, Master Card, cash and personal check. Anyone wishing to pay cash, the cost will be $35.00. The Vaccine for Children (VFC) Program is also available for children who qualify. Flu shots are also available at local pharmacies.
Additional influenza planning resources and information are available at www.cuphd.org. For updates on H1N1, infectious disease and local emergency response, “Like” Champaign County Prepares on Facebook.
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