The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Jan. 4 that it will offer free influenza vaccines at the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 12.
To date, influenza (flu) cases have been reported in all Pennsylvania counties with a number of nursing homes experiencing outbreaks. The flu strains causing illness in Pennsylvania appear to be well matched to this year's vaccine. While the DOH recommends the flu vaccine for everyone over the age of 6 months, the vaccine is especially important for older individuals, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions that place them at increased risk of complications from the flu.
The current flu-related illness in Pennsylvania is mostly due to type A influenza H3N2; the type of flu most often linked to more severe flu seasons. Once an individual is infected with this strain of the flu, it can be treated with antiviral drugs, which are most effective with an early diagnosis. But prevention is still the most recommended course of action.
In conjunction with free flu vaccination, the DOH will be providing information on topics such as smoking cessation, lead poisoning prevention, organ donation, women's wellness and how special populations can prepare for an emergency.
The DOH will have a prominent placing in the Main Hall by the carousel located near the Maclay Street lobby area. Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive the vaccine and appointments are not needed. Admission to the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show is free. For more information about free flu vaccinations, please visit the DOH website and for more information about the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show please visit their website at www.farmshow.state.pa.us.
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