FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2007

SENATOR ANDREW E. DINNIMAN CONTACT: ADAM CIRUCCI
PHONE: 610-692-2112 PHONE: 610-692-2112
www.senatordinniman.com acirucci@pasenate.com

WEST CHESTER - With record supplies of the influenza vaccine available this season, state Sen. Andy Dinniman on Wednesday urged all Pennsylvanians to protect themselves by getting a flu shot.

“Too often we underestimate the flu. But even with modern medical advances, influenza is still a very serious illness, especially for older Pennsylvanians, children and those with certain medical conditions,” Dinniman said. “So, be sure to take steps to keep you and your family healthy in the coming months.”

The most recent reports from Pennsylvania Department of Health estimate that more than 132 million doses of flu vaccine will be available this season across the country.

“There will be plenty of vaccine, so talk to your doctor now about getting a flu shot,” Dinniman said.

Each year an estimated 36,000 individuals die from influenza-related illnesses and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized nationwide, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

The disease is most serious among persons over the age of 65. Last year, Pennsylvania’s flu season began in October and peaked mid March. The virus changes year to year, therefore annual vaccination is highly recommended.

The influenza vaccine is especially recommended for:
· All children 6 to 59 months of age;
· People over 50 years of age regardless of their medical history;
· Residents of long-term care facilities;
· People with underlying health conditions such as heart, respiratory, metabolic, and immune system problems;
· People with certain muscle or nerve disorders (such as cerebral palsy or seizure disorders) that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems;
· People with weakened immune system such as: HIV/AIDS, long-term treatment with steroids, and cancer treatment with X-rays or drugs;
· People 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment;
· Women who will be pregnant anytime during the influenza season;
· Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children 0 to 59 months of age; and
· Physicians, nurses, family members, or anyone else in close contact with any of these groups at risk for influenza.

The vaccine is available through the Department of Health and is given by appointment only each Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday beginning Oct. 16 at the Government services Center at 601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380. Call (610) 344-6252 to schedule an appointment.

For more information on where you can get the influenza vaccine, contact the Sen. Dinniman’s district office (610) 692-2112, e-mail andy@pasenate.com or visit the flu shot locator at www.health.state.pa.us/flu .

###