PRLog (Press Release) -
Jan. 25, 2013 - Gardner, MA – Heywood Hospital held a free public flu clinic on Wednesday, January 16 and provided free flu shots to over 300 members of the Greater Gardner community. Recent media coverage of the flu and the increased activity in Influenza-like illness (ILI) was most likely the driving force behind the large turnout.
“I am so pleased that we were able to provide free vaccinations to such a large group of people. This year, we have seen a flu season that started much earlier and affected a larger percentage of our population,”
said Jeannie Sanborn RN, Director of Infection Prevention & Control for Heywood Hospital. She has been affectionately dubbed the resident “flu-fighter”
and has spearheaded the campaign for immunization. “Although we preach proper hand washing and cough etiquette all year long, vaccination is that extra boost that can keep the majority of us from contracting the influenza virus and shortening the length of more flu-like illness.”
The Centers for Disease Control is still reporting higher than average flu activity for the second week in January across the United States, but there has been a decline in the number of new cases recently. In Massachusetts, flu activity has continued to decline but is still higher than what is typically seen at this time of year.
The CDC reports that “flu season” can stretch into late March and early April, so it is not too late to protect yourself from illness. Vaccine is still at many physicians’ offices and clinics throughout the state.
