It's not too late to get your flu vaccination and be protected from the flu this year. That's what Mississippi Department of Health (MDH) officials want residents to know during this year's National Influenza Vaccination Week. National Influenza Vaccination Week will run from November 27 to December 3. In an effort to protect Mississippians from the dangers of flu and pneumonia, health officials are encouraging all residents to get their flu shots.

"Each year in the United States more than 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu and its complications and about 36,000 people die from flu," said State Health Officer Dr. Brian Amy. "In 2004, over 630 Mississippians died from flu and pneumonia. We want to use this opportunity to remind residents that the best way to prevent the flu and its complications is to get the flu vaccine."

Mississippi's flu season typically begins in late December or early January and runs through March. "Since Mississippi's flu season does not typically peak until February or later, November and December are still good times to get vaccinated," said Dr. Amy.

The Mississippi Department of Health (MDH) has received all of its ordered adult flu vaccine. County health department clinics are currently administering flu vaccine to all adults.

MDH continues to receive pediatric vaccine in shipments. Health officials urge residents to check with their county health department for pediatric vaccine availability.

According to federal health officials, MDH will receive the entire supply of pediatric flu vaccine it has ordered. "Mississippi is experiencing the same situation as the rest of the nation: there is plenty of flu vaccine this year for everyone to get their flu shot, but flu vaccine distribution is taking place in phases," said Dr. Amy.

Flu vaccinations cost $27 and pneumonia vaccinations are $40. Mississippians who have Medicaid or Medicare cards should bring them so that costs can be adjusted accordingly.

Typical symptoms of the flu include fever and respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches, and often extreme fatigue.

The public is also reminded to follow basic infection control measures to help prevent the spread of the flu. Such measures include covering the mouth when coughing and sneezing, staying at home when you are sick, and frequent hand washing.

To locate a county health department clinic in your area or for more information on flu and pneumonia, the public can call 1-866-HLTHY4U (1-866-458-4948) or visit our Flu and Pneumonia pages.

Receive latest health news from MDH by e-mail: subscribe to Health Updates
Press Contact: Liz Sharlot or Elizabeth Hogue, (601) 576-7667