October 10, 2003 Contact: Mary Paul (714) 567-7418
Free Flu Shots Available to Protect Older Adults
October marks the start of influenza (flu) season. Flu illness is a significant cause of respiratory infection which can result in illness and even death. In the United States, about 36,000 deaths and more than 114,000 hospitalizations each year are related to influenza illness. The good news is that flu vaccine can prevent flu illness in 70-90% of healthy people. The best months to receive the flu vaccine are October and November. As the risk for serious complications from the flu increases with the age of individual, older adults are strongly advised to obtain flu shots. There are several ways in which a senior can receive a free flu shot. Most seniors can get their shots through their personal physician, who will bill Medicare for the cost. Some HMOs offer flu shots at no additional cost to their members. Various pharmacies have specified dates when flu shots are given free to those presenting Medicare Cards. These can be found by logging on to www.findaflushot.com. The most popular source of free senior flu shots is the local senior center, church, or medical center that is receiving vaccine through the Public Health Immunization Program. To find the nearest place and date to get a flu shot, an older adult needs only to call the County of Orange Office on Aging’s Information and Assistance line: 1-800-510-2020. They also provide information on housing, medical and other transportation, in-home services and much more. - # # # # -