Kingston, NY – County Executive Mike Hein announces that the Ulster County Department of Health (UCDOH) will hold its annual flu and pneumonia vaccination clinics at several locations throughout Ulster County. Information regarding sites, dates, and times are attached and appointments are not required. County Executive Hein received his flu vaccination today to demonstrate the importance of preventing the flu.
“Flu season is upon us and the Ulster County Department of Health has arranged for various flu clinics around the County,” said County Executive Mike Hein. “A flu vaccination is a preventative measure and I invite County residents to attend one of the many clinics to avoid this unnecessary illness.”
“Influenza is a serious disease that can be averted with a timely vaccination,” said Dr. Carol Smith, Ulster County Commissioner of Health. “In addition to getting vaccinated, other preventative actions may be taken such as washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs and covering your cough. If you are sick with the flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading influenza to others.”
Influenza is a contagious disease and can include symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, sore throat, runny nose and body aches. The flu virus can be much more detrimental for older adults, young children, and people who have certain chronic diseases making recovery more difficult.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends annual vaccinations for everyone, 6 months of age and older. The seasonal flu vaccine is designed to protect against the main flu viruses that research suggests will cause the most illness during the upcoming flu season and those immunized last year are NOT protected against this year’s virus. Children between 6 months and 8 years of age may need two doses of flu vaccine to be fully protected from the flu and a doctor or healthcare professional can advise you if that is the case.
For more information, call the Ulster County Department of Health Flu Hotline at 845-340-3093. Additional information can also be obtained online at http://ulstercountyny.gov/health/health-mental-health or on the CDC’s flu information page at www.cdc.gov/flu.
See Clinic Schedule Attached.
Pictured below is Ulster County Executive Mike Hein receiving a flu shot
