Community members joined Stamford Mayor David Martin on Tuesday, September 23, at the Stamford Government Center to launch Stamford Hospital and the City of Stamford Department of Health and Social Services’ 16th annual “Fight the Flu” campaign.
“Residents in our community should begin getting vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available to ensure they are protected before flu season begins,” said Michael Parry, MD, the Thomas J. Bradsell Chair of Infectious Diseases at Stamford Hospital. “The flu comes through every year, but the exact timing, severity and length of the season are difficult to predict so it’s important to vaccinate as many people as possible to limit the spread of the disease.”
The flu is a contagious respiratory condition caused by influenza viruses than can vary in severity. Generally the flu is characterized by symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness and dry cough, which generally differs it from a common cold. The flu has a higher risk of serious complications, such as pneumonia, for certain populations including young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions and people 65 years and older.
The CDC recommends the annual flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease.
“Because flu symptoms generally start one to four days after a person has been infected with the virus it is possible to pass the flu to someone else, up to six feet away, even before knowing they are sick,” said Anne Fountain, Director of Health and Social Services for the City of Stamford. “To help minimize the spread of the flu, do your part by getting vaccinated, avoid contact with those you know have the flu, stay home from work or school if you are sick, regularly wash hands with soap and water and be sure to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.”
Stamford Hospital and the City of Stamford are again offering vaccination clinics this year:
Stamford Government Center Lobby: 888 Washington Blvd.
- Tuesday, September 23: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Thursdays, September 25 – November 20: 12 noon – 2 p.m.
- Mondays, September 29 – October 27: 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Stamford Hospital’s Tully Health Center: 32 Strawberry Hill Ct.
- Thursdays, September 25 – October 23: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Mondays, September 29 – October 27: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
This year both sites will be offering the quadrivalent vaccine. All vaccines are preservative free and latex free. Vaccines also available at the Tully Center include nasal Flumist, as well as the high-potency vaccine option for people 65 years of age and older. The cost for the quadrivalent flu shot and Flumist is $40. The high-potency shot is available for $50. Primary Medicare Part B is the only form of insurance accepted.
For more information, please call Stamford Hospital’s flu hotline at (203) 276-4948.