Free flu shots for the uninsured offered at O.C. Health Care as of 11/7

Orange County Health Care Agency

Press Release

Orange County Reports Season’s First Influenza Case Free Flu Vaccinations Every Thursday

(Santa Ana) – The Orange County Health Care Agency is reporting the first locally-acquired case of influenza signaling that flu season is officially here. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. Anyone who has not already received flu vaccination should get it now before flu season peaks.

The Health Care Agency is offering free seasonal influenza vaccinations for people 6 months of age and older who do not have a medical provider or health insurance coverage. They are available on a walk-in basis:

Flu vaccine is recommended every year for people six months of age and older, and is especially important for infants, young children, pregnant women, adults over 50, and for those with chronic medical conditions. Close contacts and caregivers of these high risk people should also get vaccinated. Influenza is a seasonal contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.  Flu symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills, and fatigue.  Flu illness can be severe, leading to missed school or work, hospitalization, and even death. Flu virus is mainly spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes.  Remember these important everyday steps to help stop the spread of germs:

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (or sleeve if you are caught by surprise)
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water (or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if not available)
• Stay home if you are sick (at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medications)

Flu vaccine is available from health care providers, clinics, and pharmacies throughout Orange County.  The most current local information, including vaccination locations, is available 24/7 at www.ochealthinfo.com/flu or by calling the Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.