MCPH stresses importance of flu shots for all residents, especially children
- Influenza has begun to affect young and school age children in Mesa County. Flu season runs through May, so it isn’t too late to get your flu shot.
- Since September 30, 2018, we’ve seen 30 hospitalizations due to flu. At this same time in 2018, we’d had 131 hospitalizations due to flu.
- Thirteen percent of flu hospitalizations have occurred in children younger than 18 years of age.
- Flu shots are available for people six months of age and older.
- Some children six months through eight years of age require two doses of flu vaccine. Talk to your health care provider or call Mesa County Public Health if you have any questions.
- Getting your flu shot not only protects you, but those around you who are too young or are unable to get vaccinated due to underlying medical conditions.
- Sensitive groups including children younger than five, adults older than 55, pregnant women, people with diabetes and people with asthma are at higher risk for complications due to flu which can be serious and even fatal.
- It’s important for all community members to get a flu vaccination, so we can protect our most vulnerable populations, together.
- Vaccination also lessens the severity of symptoms should a person get sick with influenza.
- Good handwashing and staying home when you’re sick will also help prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
- If you’re sick, it’s best to stay home and avoid contact with other people.
- Mesa County Public Health is offering flu immunization by appointment or walk-in at our clinic, 510 29 ½ Road in Grand Junction, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon.
- We serve all patients, regardless of ability to pay.
- Stay up-to-date on flu information in Mesa County by visiting our Flu View Page.
For more information, visit health.mesacounty.us.