Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: January 5, 2004
CONTACT: Maria Wah-Fitta 401-222-3998

RI Adults Age 50 or Older Now Eligible for Flu Shots
HEALTH Reports Regional Level of Flu Activity

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) announced today that the guidelines for the use of adult flu shots during the remainder of the 2004-2005 influenza season have been expanded. Any adult 50 years of age or older is now eligible for a flu shot.

All children, as well as adults between the ages of 19 and 49 with chronic conditions continue to be eligible to receive injectable vaccine.

FluMist, the nasal spray vaccine, is available to adults 19 to 49 with no chronic conditions. Both flu shots and FluMist are available through some physician’s offices, or through one of our scheduled community flu vaccination sites. For a complete list of priority groups and for the current flu vaccination site schedule, go to www.health.ri.gov/flu

The decision to expand the guidelines addresses the regional activity level of flu in Rhode Island, and the increased availability of flu vaccine in physician’s offices, and through community partners.

Strategies to prevent the spread of flu are now more important than ever.

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water and teach your children to do the same.
• Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hands, or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Immediately throw away the used tissue.
• Stay away from sick people.
• If you or your children are sick, stay home from work, school, and errands.

For more information call the Family Health Information Line at 1-800-942-7434 during normal business hours.