This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week, and local health officials are encouraging all residents to be vaccinated against the swine flu.
Flu season does not end with the holidays, but continues through the winter and spring months, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
"Increased supplies of H1N1 flu vaccine in LA County have allowed us to make the vaccines available to almost everyone over the age of 6 months," said Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, director of Public Health. "Residents who may have held off on receiving vaccine, either because it was not available or because they were not in a priority group, should take the time now to protect themselves from influenza."
The swine flu vaccinations can be taken via shot or nasal spray.
While current levels of flu activity in LA County appear to be normal for this time of year, there is always the possibility that a third wave of H1N1 flu might strike, or that seasonal flu cases may increase, according to the health department.
"Influenza remains active in LA County and most people are still susceptible to becoming ill," Fielding said. "Flu season typically lasts until May. In fact, the H1N1 virus was not detected in the U.S. until late April of last year, which means that another increase in flu activity is certainly possible."
H1N1 vaccine is available through private doctors, community clinics, and some retail pharmacies. A limited number of appointments for no-cost H1N1 vaccine will be available at certain Los Angeles County Public Health centers for residents who do not have health insurance or a regular source of health care.
For locations and contact information for the health centers, visit the county Department of Public Health Web site.
