As the holidays are in full swing, the flu season, unfortunately, is also off to an early start. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza activity in the United States this year has been increasing since the beginning of November and indicators were higher than is typically seen for this time of the year. Among the states that reported the most widespread activity included Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Oklahoma. The good news is, however, that the majority of the influenza viruses characterized thus far are among the strains targeted in the year’s flu vaccine. Since the flu is more serious that the common cold, preventative measures are crucial.
While National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec 3-9) may be over, it is never too late to get your flu shot. People of every age are at risk for the contagious respiratory illness and the annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against this potentially serious disease. Although a majority of hospitalizations and deaths occur in people 65 years and older, even healthy young children and younger adults can develop serious complications or even die from the flu— so protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated.
Remember, the flu shot is available at no charge to our members when given at a Kaiser Permanente medical facility. Click here to find flu clinic information in your area.
The Kaiser Permanente Center for Total Health hosts internal and external educational events. All events – including annual banquets, quarterly meetings, trainings, interviews – feature healthy catering options and can be customized to incorporate the interactive exhibits that make the Center for Total health experience both fun and informative for attendees. If your organization is interested in hosting an event, please send us an event request via our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
