'Ban The Bug' Campaign Urges Minnesotans To Catch Up On Their Influenza Vaccinations

Numerous clinics will be held around state Nov. 26 – Dec. 2

November 21, 2007 -- If you haven’t received your annual influenza vaccination yet, it’s not too late, say state health officials. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), the Minnesota Coalition for Adult Immunization (MCAI) and other organizations will hold their annual 'Ban the Bug' campaign from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2. The campaign, which coincides with the Centers for Disease Control’s National Influenza Vaccination Week, will provide numerous opportunities for Minnesotans across the state to receive their vaccinations.

Local public health agencies, nonprofit groups and health care organizations will sponsor influenza vaccination clinics during the week of Nov. 26 through Dec. 2, as well as the entire month of December. Public health officials in Minnesota have long encouraged people who have a high risk for complications from influenza – particularly those over 50 and those with weakened immune systems – to get their shots beginning in October. Throughout November, they’ve been encouraging others to get theirs as well.

“This year it appears there is an ample supply of flu vaccine,' said Kristen Ehresmann, chief of MDH’s immunizations section. 'After last year’s unfortunate flu deaths of six children and one firefighter – reminders of just how devastating influenza can be – we want to make sure Minnesotans take the opportunity to get vaccinated,' Ehresmann said. 'The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get vaccinated.'

Flu season in Minnesota typically peaks anytime between December and April, so getting an influenza vaccination now can provide months of protection, Ehresmann said. Minnesota has already had its first culture confirmed influenza case in a woman from Dakota County.

'I encourage anyone who hasn’t yet done so to get vaccinated for influenza at one of these special clinics Nov. 26 – Dec. 2. You’ll be doing a lot to keep yourself, your family and your community healthy this winter.'

To find the flu clinic location nearest you, go to 'Find a Flu Shot Clinic', on the MDH influenza Web site at www.mdhflu.com.

The cost of vaccinations will vary at each site. There is no cost to people with Medicare Part B and some other insurance plans, provided they bring their Medicare or other insurance cards with them. Those seeking shots are asked to wear short sleeves, perhaps under a sweater if it’s cold, to make getting the shot easier and more comfortable.

Flu shots also may be given at other locations and times not listed on the MDH Web site. Check with your physician’s office or regular walk-in clinic about getting vaccinated against the flu.

Annual vaccination against influenza is recommended for anyone, including school-aged children who want to reduce the risk of becoming ill with influenza or of transmitting influenza to others. According to MDH, flu shots are strongly recommended for:

* People who are at increased risk of complications, including:
• People 65 and older;
• People living in nursing homes;
• People with certain high-risk medical conditions, including heart disease, lung disease including asthma, diabetes, kidney problems, a blood disorder, or immune system problems (such as HIV infection, or an immune system suppressed by medication, chemotherapy or radiation therapy);
• Children 6-59 months of age;
• All women who will be pregnant during the influenza season.
* People likely to be at increased risk, such as adults 50 to 64 years of age.
* People who can transmit influenza to others at increased risk, such as:
• People living with or caring for children under five years old (59 months);
• Health care workers.

'It takes about two weeks to develop maximum protection after a flu shot, so don’t delay,' Ehresman said. 'If you get your shot during Ban the Bug week, your immunity will be nearing full development by the holidays.'

Source: Minnesota Department of Health

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