According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a yearly vaccine is the first and most important step in guarding against the influenza virus, commonly referred to as the flu.  Area residents can take this measure with the help of Stamford Hospital and the City of Stamford Department of Health and Social Services during the 14th annual “Fight the Flu” campaign. 

Community members joined Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia on Tuesday, October 2, in the Stamford Government Center Lobby for the first administration of the flu shot.  For $30, individuals can receive a single dose of preservative-free vaccine to protect against two strains of the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus.  The vaccine lasts throughout the flu season. 

“Regardless of your level of risk, it is imperative that everyone receives a vaccine this year, even those who may be otherwise healthy,” said Dr. Michael Parry, Stamford Hospital’s Director of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology.  “The flu is, typically, unpredictable and it is best to receive protection before the virus arrives in the community.”

While the CDC advises that everyone over the age of six months receive a regular flu vaccine. Those who run a high risk of serious flu complications include: young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions and people 65 years and older.  For seniors over 65, an optional, high-potency shot, Fluzone, will be available for $40.  Primary Medicare Part B is accepted as payment. Managed Medicare is not accepted.

The flu, a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, can cause mild to severe illness and at times lead to death.  In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations, according to the CDC.

“While ample influenza vaccine exists in the community, residents should still be taking precautions at home and work to avoid getting sick,” said Anne Fountain,  Director of Health and Social Services for the City of Stamford.  “It’s important to remember that the flu is highly contagious, as it is easily spread through the air and individuals can become infected by touching contaminated objects.  Along with a vaccine, people should be regularly washing their hands and covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing.”

Vaccinations will begin following the campaign’s kick-off press conference in the Government Center Lobby, and will continue at the following scheduled dates and locations

Stamford Hospital’s Tully Health Center: 32 Strawberry Hill Ct.
Starting Tuesday, October 2 and concluding Friday, October 26
Mondays & Fridays: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Tuesdays: 4 – 8 p.m.

Stamford Government Center Lobby: 888 Washington Blvd.
 Starting Tuesday, October 2
 Tuesdays: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
 Thursdays: 12 – 2 p.m. 

Annual Senior Health Fair: Jewish Community Center, 1035 Newfield Avenue
Tuesday, October 16
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  

 For more information, please call Stamford Hospital’s flu hotline at (203) 276-4948.