October 15, 2020 Louisiana Department of Health holds Lafayette flu vaccine clinic

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Oct 15, 2020 - With flu season starting, the Louisiana Department of Health is holding a flu vaccination clinic in Lafayette until 5 p.m. today. Last year in Louisiana, the flu was associated with more than 15,000 hospitalizations, more than 1,600 deaths and 5 pediatric deaths all due to the flu. This year, the flu shot is more important than ever as COVID-19 levels remain high across the state.

Community flu clinics are open to the public, and walk-ups are welcome. Wear short or loose-fitting sleeves and bring your private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare card.

Cost

There is no cost for a flu shot. Bring your private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare card if you have it. Your insurance will be billed.

Flu shot facts

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Louisiana Department of Heath recommend a yearly flu shot for everyone over six months of age who does not have a complicating condition, such as a prior allergic reaction to the flu shot.
• A flu shot is especially crucial for people who may be at higher risk for serious complications. This includes babies and young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions and people 65 years and older.
• The flu shot is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, who can pass on antibodies to their babies that will help protect them.
• The flu shot starts to offer partial protection immediately, but takes about two weeks to offer full protection.
• Most seasonal flu activity occurs between October and May, and typically peaks between December and February.
• Last year in Louisiana, the flu was associated with more than 15,000 hospitalizations, more than 1,600 deaths and 5 pediatric deaths all due to the flu.
• Influenza is especially serious in long-term care facilities (nursing homes). Severe and even fatal illness can be introduced by healthcare workers, visitors and newly admitted residents.
• The flu has a tremendous impact on school attendance and on the families of school children.
• An estimated 28% of school-aged children get influenza each year.

For more information

• Visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm for weekly FluView updates from the CDC.
• For Louisiana-specific information, visit the LDH Fight the Flu LA webpage for information, resources weekly flu activity reports and more.