Seasonal Influenza
Seasonal influenza, commonly called "the flu," is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs). This annual disease causes many people to become sick and be hospitalized. The best way to protect yourself against the flu is by getting an annual flu vaccination.
Although even "healthy people" are encouraged to get a flu shot, the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health recommend that the following high risk groups receive state funded (free or low cost) vaccinations:
- All children aged 6 months to 4 years (59 months)
- All person 50 years or older
- Children and adolescents (aged 6 months to 18 years) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and who might be at risk for experiencing Rey syndrome after influenza virus infection
- Women who will be pregnant during the influenza season
- Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, hematological, or metabolic disorders
- Adults and children who have immunosuppression (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by HIV)
- Adults and children who have any condition that can compromise respiratory function or that can increase the risk for aspiration
- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities
Also, persons who live with or care for persons at high-risk are recommended to get an annual flu vaccination. These groups include:
- Health-care Personnel
- Healthy household contacts and caregivers of children 59 months or less and adults 50 years or older
- Healthy household contacts and caregivers of persons with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications from influenza
Butte County residents who do not qualify for state funded vaccine are encouraged to get vaccinated by their health care provider, or at a clinic offering private vaccine for purchase.
For information about updated flu clinic locations, call the Butte County Public Health Flu Information Line at: 1-866-444-2405
Where To Get Flu Vaccine
American Lung Association's Flu Clinic Locator
Seasonal Influenza Links
Ordering Influenza Vaccine for 2009-2010 Season 