Seniors, Pregnant Woman Asked To Get Flu Vaccination

North Idaho health officials are urging senior citizens, pregnant women and others at risk for influenza to get vaccinated against the disease in coming weeks.

The flu causes up to 40,000 deaths every year. More than 80 percent occur among people age 65 and older. Vaccination of seniors can reduce deaths and hospitalizations by 50 percent, health officials say.

Panhandle Health District officials recommend that the following at-risk people get shots:

People 65 and over;

People with long-term heart and lung problems, including asthma;

Nursing home residents;

Pregnant women;

Health care workers;

Those living with people in at-risk groups.

Flu shots cost $9. Medicaid recipients can get shots only at Panhandle Health District offices at 2195 Ironwood Court. Shots are available on Fridays, beginning Nov. 7.

Flu shots also will be available at several satellite locations throughout Kootenai County on alternating Fridays.

, DataTimes