Chicago Public Health Department Offers Flu Shots

Vaccinations are safe, fast and effective

Efrat Stein, 312.747.9805, 312.747.9805

For Immediate Release

CHICAGO – The Chicago Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) annual influenza vaccination drive is underway with flu shot clinics scheduled across Chicago. This year’s theme rolled out with an advertising campaign called “Vote Healthy, GET A FLU SHOT” that reminds residents that voting for their health is important this season, and they can do that by getting a flu shot.

Flu shots are offered free of charge at CDPH sites located around the City, The CDPH flu clinics run from now until December 8, 2012. A list of locations can be found on the CDPH website at www.CityofChicago.org/Flu.

“Flu season can be very unpredictable,” said CDPH Commissioner Bechara Choucair, M.D. “We know that the flu hits every year, but for how long and how bad depends on many factors,” the good news is that there are simple steps everyone can take to reduce the risk of getting the flu, including getting vaccinated. The annual flu drive is an excellent example of how CDPH strives to help every resident stay healthy. Ensuring Chicagoans have access to life-saving vaccines is a key strategy in Healthy Chicago, the plan to make Chicago the healthiest city in the nation.”

CDPH recommends that individuals receive vaccinations from their own doctor or other regular health care provider. For those without a healthcare provider, there are also other convenient, affordable opportunities to get a flu shot---including retail pharmacies and the CDPH flu shot sites.

Because the flu vaccine is made from egg products, people who are allergic to eggs should get their flu vaccines from their healthcare provider. The 2011-12 flu vaccine offers protection against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus. Flu shots are free of charge at the CDPH clinics; however, senior citizens should present their Medicare card.

In addition to getting a flu shot, everyone can also follow these simple steps to avoid the flu:

Wash your hands often with soap and water.
Get rid of germs and regularly clean commonly-touched surfaces, such as countertops, tables, doorknobs, telephones and TV/stereo remote controls.
Don’t share cups, straws or anything that goes in the mouth.
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, and promptly discard used facial tissues.
If you are sick, stay home.

Other important factors that help prevent getting sick:

Eating more whole grains, vegetables and fruit.
Getting enough rest and staying physically fit to help the body fight off disease.
Not smoking and reducing your exposure to secondhand smoke.
Smoke impairs the ability of your mucous and cilia to trap dust and microbes including flu viruses.