American Lung Association of Arizona, Phoenix Fire and Maricopa County Public Health Urge Residents to Get Vaccinated Again...(id spreading the virus. The...),Health

"The Phoenix Fire Department is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of our community. As health-care providers and first responders, we can't afford to miss a day on the job," said Chief Khan. "It is critical that we protect ourselves, as well as those we come into contact with, from influenza. By protecting ourselves, we are also protecting our community."

Influenza, along with its complications, is a serious respiratory illness. Last year, Maricopa County reported 2,913 lab confirmed cases of influenza; and 5,168 were confirmed statewide. However, this number is far less than the actual number of flu cases since the vast majority are not diagnosed and reported. In fact, the CDC estimates between 76,000 and 303,000 Phoenix-area residents will suffer from influenza in an average year, and while more than 4 out of 5 Americans should be vaccinated annually, immunization rates fall far short each season.

About Influenza

Influenza, along with its complications, is a serious respiratory illness. On average, 36,000 Americans die and about 226,000 people are hospitalized each year. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. The CDC recommends that anyone who wishes to reduce their risk of contracting influenza; children 6 months-18 years of age; adults over 50 years of age; pregnant women; and anyone with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes, receive an annual influenza immunization. The CDC also recommends annual immunization for caregivers and household contacts of these high-risk groups; such as relatives and health-care providers. Vaccination typically begins in October and can continue through March. In most seasons, influenza virus activity peaks in February or March, so vaccination throughout the entire influenza season is beneficial and recommended.

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