Actress and Mother Jennifer Garner Joins American Lung Association to Encourage Americans to Get an Influenza V...( Garner to Kick-Off Faces of Influen...),Health

Garner to Kick-Off Faces of Influenza Campaign in New York City Monday,

November 12

NEW YORK, Oct. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Actress Jennifer Garner joins the American Lung Association in a new role as national spokesperson for the Association's Faces of Influenza education campaign. As one of the many "faces" of influenza, she will encourage families to speak with their health-care providers about annual influenza vaccination.

The Lung Association's Faces of Influenza campaign aims to put a "face" on influenza (the eighth leading cause of death when combined with pneumonia) and to stress the importance of annual influenza immunization throughout the fall and winter months. As a mother of a young child, Garner is one of the more than 220 million "faces" recommended to be vaccinated this and every year.

"Women play an important role in a family. It's our job to take care of those we love, that's why I make sure my family is protected against influenza," said Garner. "As one of the many Faces of Influenza, you and I and those close to us need to get vaccinated. Influenza is not the common cold. It's serious."

On average, approximately 36,000 people die and about 226,000 are hospitalized due to influenza and its complications in the US every year. More than 2 out of every 3 Americans are recommended for annual vaccination but immunization rates fall far short every year, leaving many unprotected and at risk for severe illness.

Garner is joined by other celebrities, public health officials and everyday people who are part of the Faces of Influenza initiative. Other prominent individuals include: actor Dean Cain, who played Superman on ABC's Lois and Clark; Olympic Gold Medal figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi; Olympic Gold Medalist, WNBA basketball star Sheryl Swoopes; Dr. Joyce Brothers, well- known psychologist and advice columnist; Joy Behar, comedian and co-host of ABC's The View; Olympic Gold Medalist Vonet
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