Happy New Year to Everyone!
You may have noticed the spread of the H1N1 flu decreasing lately. And in between all the holiday festivities and to-do lists, you may be asking whether getting the vaccine is still important. What many don’t know is that flu season typically lasts through May, and that past pandemics have occurred in waves. In other words, it’s possible that we will see another increase in H1N1 and/or seasonal flu in the months ahead. Below are some useful tips provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for you to share with your family and friends as you celebrate the holiday season.
3 Simple Steps to a Happy New Year
- Add the Vaccine to Your Wish List – Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. To find the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccine clinics nearest you, visit FLU.gov and type in your zip code. The Department of Health and Human Services recently teamed up with Google Maps to create this handy flu vaccine locator. Go ahead, try it out!
NOTE: Many people at high risk for flu complications have received the H1N1 vaccine, so most states are opening their clinics to the general population. Please call ahead to the desired clinic location to confirm availability. Contact information is listed on the FLU.gov vaccine locator.
- Be a Germ Stopper – Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Also, stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick. For additional information, see how to prevent and treat the flu.
- Check the Facts and Stay Informed – Visit FLU.gov regularly for the latest information. Heard a rumor? Visit Myths & Facts to run a fact check.
If you’ve been vaccinated already, please share this email with friends and family and let them know why the H1N1 vaccine is safe and recommended by health experts. The 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is made the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine, including the President, First Lady and their children.
Questions? Visit FLU.gov or call the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636), offering services in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is going to make every effort to remain operational and continue to offer a quality education to its students.
The Executive Leadership Team is regularly informed and aware of current trends and will make appropriate decisions as to the daily operations. Our district remains in contact with our local County Health Departments and we will follow their advice for proper protocols in your best interest.