Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: November 19, 2003
Contact: Mimi Larzelere or Pat Raymond
Cell: 401-639-6323

Influenza Activity High in United States
It is Not Too Late to Get a Flu Shot

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) announced Monday that the influenza season this year could be more severe than recent years. Influenza viruses are circulating at higher levels than at this time last year. The CDC reported widespread and regional influenza activity in Texas and Colorado, with influenza identified in an additional 22 states. This is the earliest CDC has seen influenza become prevalent in this way.

"Holidays are peak travel times. Because of the high level of flu activity across the country, travelers are much more likely to contract the influenza virus and expose others," says Patricia Nolan, MD, Director of the Department of Health. "The single best way to prevent influenza is to get a flu shot. It takes 10 days for the body to develop immunity, so it is important for people especially those at high risk, to get their flu shots now."

While there is no reported flu activity in Rhode Island, the Department of Health strongly encourages anyone who wants to be protected from influenza to get a flu shot now. If you are in a high-risk group, call your primary care physician to make an appointment to get a flu shot. Parents of children less than 18 years of age should call their doctor.

The Ocean State Adult Immunization Coalition has scheduled a number of public flu clinics for adults including one this Saturday, November 22 at the Rhode Island Mall. For a list of other scheduled flu clinics, Rhode Islanders can call the Flu Hotline at 1-800-555-7858 or visit their web site at www.health.ri.gov