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CONTACT: Beth Kaplan, (608) 267-3810
INFLUENZA IMMUNIZATION SAVES LIVES AND HEALTH CARE
COSTS
By Seth Foldy, M.D., Wisconsin State Health Officer
The 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic has faded in Wisconsin, but the H1N1
virus hasn’t disappeared from the world stage. In fact, this fall’s
seasonal influenza vaccine will include protection against H1N1, because
the virus still lingers. As with pandemics of the past, the virus could
return in its current or mutated form.
Even “regular” influenza can kill. The CDC estimates about 23,600
influenza-associated deaths occur yearly. Children, pregnant women and
even other healthy adults do sometimes become very ill or die from
influenza. Now almost everyone age six months and older fall under Federal
recommendations to be immunized. Getting vaccinated against influenza is
especially important for persons older than 50 or who have underlying
health conditions.
Seasonal influenza vaccine is already available in many parts of
Wisconsin, so make influenza vaccination a part of your fall routine.
Check with your health care provider or local health department.
Immunization is a safe and effective measure to protect against serious
illnesses in our children, our parents and ourselves. Vaccines are held to
the highest standard of safety. The United States currently has the
safest, most effective vaccine supply in history. Extensive testing is
required by law before a vaccine can be licensed. Once in use, vaccines
are continually monitored for safety and efficacy.
Immunization reduces both absences and the spread of illness at work,
school, home and social events. Immunizations also lower healthcare costs
by preventing hospitalizations for flu complications.
Safe and inexpensive, influenza immunization will protect millions of
Wisconsin children, adults and elders in the winter season. Now is the
time to make sure you, your family and your friends and co-workers get
protected too.
For information on vaccine safety visit: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Vaccines/Common_questions.html
For information on Wisconsin’s Immunization Program visit: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/index.htm
For information on Pandemic Influenza visit: http://pandemic.wisconsin.gov/
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Last Revised: September 08, 2010 |
