Super Shot Supports National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) December 4 – 10, 2011

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – December 4, 2011 – Super Shot is observing NIVW by reminding families that the Centers for Disease Control  recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older.  Flu season usually peaks in January and February but can last as late as May.   

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body’s immune response to fully kick in. So,  Super Shot  asks parents to immunize their children now before the holiday season. The organization also encourages children and their families to fight the flu by using these simple steps:  

• Wash your hands often. 
• Cover your cough.
• If you’re sick, stay home.
• Get a flu shot!

Every year in the United States, 5 to 20% of the population will contract the flu. Over 200,000 people will be hospitalized from flu complications, and approximately 36,000 will die. Children are at particular risk because of their developing immune systems.

Anyone who lives with or cares for young children, including siblings and daycare providers, should get vaccinated against flu. Children under six months old are too young to be vaccinated; the best way to protect them is for household members and caregivers to receive the vaccination.

Super Shot offers the  injectable flu vaccine and Mist (injection is suitable for children ages six months through 18 years; Mist is recommended for Healthy children ages two to 18). Parents are required to bring their child’s shot record and a Medicaid card, if applicable. Call Super Shot at 424-SHOT (7468) with any questions.

Super Shot—a non-profit, non-governmental program—operates an independent reduced cost immunization program ($8 per shot though no one is turned away for inability to pay; Medicaid accepted) that serves children in Allen and surrounding counties with family friendly hours and convenient locations. Last year, 17,377 children received 48,646 immunizations through this program. Have questions about Super Shot locations? Call 424-7468 or view the Super Shot clinic schedules at www.supershot.org. For more information about the flu go to fighttheflu.org or familiesfightingflu.org

Media Contact: Kelly Zachrich, Executive Director, Super Shot – 260-609-0052