September is Immunization Month … and for UV residents, that’s a “shot in the arm” or a STRONG POSITIVE INFLUENCE. Vaccinations have virtually eliminated many serious diseases, like diphtheria, smallpox, polio and tetanus. Other immunizations help the body fight microorganisms of more common illnesses, like the flu. Most vaccines can be given by mouth, nasal spray or through a simple injection. Another “shot in the arm” that’s good for you!
So what do Seniors need? Most commonly, a tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis booster, herpes-zoster (shingles) vaccine, influenza (flu) vaccine, or pneumo-coccal (pneumonia) vaccine. There may be some risks associated with these vaccines if you have other health problems, so CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR about the best immunization schedule for you.
True or False?
Answers below – no peeking!
1. A flu shot can give you the flu.
2. Stomach flu and influenza are the same thing.
3. Getting a flu shot in December is too late to help.
4. Folks should get a flu shot every year.
5. Washing your hands is the best protection against the flu.
6. Flu germs are spread through coughs & sneezes.
7. Flu is NOT a serious illness.
8. Nasal spray can be a flu vaccine.
9. You can give someone else the flu before you get sick.
10. There is no treatment for the flu.
September WELLNESS ACTIVITY
Guest Speaker: Becky Grubb; Immunization Program at Tulsa Health Department; Wednesday September 10 1:00pm Stovall Theater
ANNUAL FLU SHOTS Friday October 3 9:00am—Noon Stovall Theater
1. False 2. False 3. False 4. True 5. False 6. True 7. False 8. True 9. True 10. False
