DeLauro Raises Awareness of the Influenza Virus and Highlights Flu Vaccines

January 14, 2016
Press Release

NEW HAVEN, CT (January 14, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today visited Apex Pharmacy in Hamden, Connecticut to raise public awareness of the influenza virus and highlight the steps people can take to protect themselves and their families during flu season. Following the event, Congresswoman DeLauro received her annual flu vaccine and noted that the immunization is especially important for at risk populations, including children and the elderly.

“No one wants to come down with the flu and I am glad to see that Protein Sciences – a Connecticut based company – is doing its part to help prevent the spread of the flu this year by providing Americans with the Flublok vaccine,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). “More than 143.3 million doses of flu vaccine have been distributed in the United States this year, and there will be one more when I get my flu shot today. Each of us should do our part to keep our families healthy and safe, and receiving an annual flu shot is one of the easiest steps we can take.”

“It’s not too late to get your flu shot,” said Matthew Katz, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Connecticut State Medical Society. “You not only improve your chances of avoiding the flu, but you also help protect your loved ones. Flu can be devastating – even deadly – for the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.”

The Center for Disease Control recommends that anyone over the age of 6 months should receive a flu vaccine to reduce doctor visits, illnesses, and missed school and work. Seniors over the age of 65, children under the age of 2, pregnant women, and people of any age with chronic medical conditions are most at risk of contracting the flu. The CDC recommends that if you have high-risk conditions and contract the flu, that you should discuss treatment options with your doctor, including antiviral medication, which can reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications that require hospitalization.

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