October 23, 2019 3:50 a.m.
State health officials are making a push for residents to get a flu vaccine.
A release from the Oregon Health Authority said flu cases are beginning to be seen in Oregon. Officials recommend that everyone age 6 months and older be vaccinated.
The release said people who get vaccinated not only protect themselves, but may also protect those around them. People at higher risk of severe illness include babies and young children, adults over age 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions or weak immune systems.
Ann Thomas, M.D. public health physician at the OHA Public Health Division said healthy adults who get vaccinated help prevent the flu from spreading, but only a third of adults between ages 18 to 49 get the flu vaccine. She said “Even if adults do not get a vaccine for themselves, they may want to get vaccinated to protect those they love”.
The release said the flu vaccine may take up to two weeks to become effective, so getting it earlier in the season is ideal. Flu vaccine is available from health care providers, local health departments and from many pharmacies. The vaccine is free or low cost with most health insurance plans.
To find a flu vaccine clinic go to http://www.flu.oregon.gov/.