Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 7, 2006

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Free Flu Shots Available at Collin County Health Care Services

(McKinney, TX) – Free flu vaccinations will be offered by Collin County Health Care Services during the week of December 11th for adults and children six months and older. Collin County Health Care Services has approximately 3,000 adult doses and 3,000 children’s doses currently available.

At its best, flu has an immediate impact on the body with aches, chills and a fever. At its worst, flu may cause pneumonia and death among infants, young adults and the elderly. Some people are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from influenza and should get flu vaccinations every year: Children aged six months to five years, pregnant women, people 50 and older, people who have chronic illnesses and people who live in nursing homes are encouraged to receive annual flu vaccinations.

Several cases of flu have been confirmed in Collin County so far this season. However, that number is expected to rise as the holiday travel continues. In fact, flu season will continue through March, so it is not too late to be vaccinated.

Do not let the flu be your holiday gift! Get vaccinated and practice good health habits such as frequent hand washing and the covering of mouths when coughing or sneezing.

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