October 5, 2016 - Influenza, "flu", is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Each year, over 200,000 people are hospitalized in the United States and on average 36,000 people die due to complications related to influenza. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu is to get a flu vaccine.

The flu vaccine helps to protect against the three main circulating seasonal influenza viruses: Influenza A H1N1, Influenza A H3N2 and Influenza B. Previously, the Mariposa County Health Department had offered both the flu shot and nasal spray.  Because the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices found that the nasal spray was markedly less effective in preventing flu than the shot, we will not be offering the nasal spray this year. In order to provide the highest level of protection, the Mariposa County Health Department will only provide flu vaccine shots.

Flu vaccine is available during special clinic hours and at locations throughout the county during September and October. Locations and times will be announced in local news and social media sites as well as posted on the Mariposa County Health Department website www.mariposacounty.org/health and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MariposaCountyHealthDepartment/).

You may also call 209-966-1133 or 888-966-1133 for a recording of the dates, times, and locations. As always, if you have any questions or would like additional information regarding our annual flu vaccine clinics, please contact the Mariposa County Health Department at 209-966-3689 or 800-459-4466.

Source: Mariposa County Health Department