Ithaca College

As flu diagnoses continue to increase across New York State, Governor Cuomo has authorized counties to expand efforts that promote and increase access to flu vaccine and other prevention techniques. Tompkins County, similar to statewide trends, is seeing an increase in flu this season. The Health Department is urging residents to get their flu shot to slow down and stop the spread of the flu virus.

“It is not too late to get your flu shot. Vaccination is our best way to protect our community from the flu virus. Even if you get the flu, your symptoms are likely to be less severe if you are vaccinated,” states Frank Kruppa, Public Health Director.

We have several months of flu season remaining. If you still need the flu shot:

• Call your healthcare provider
• Call your local pharmacy
• Call the Health Department at 607-274-6604 to check for availability and make an appointment.
• Find other locations using HealthMap Vaccine Finder: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/

Getting the flu shot helps protect you and those, who are most vulnerable to the flu, including children under the age of 5, elderly 65 years and older, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. Infants under 6 months of age cannot receive the vaccine, and therefore parents and caregivers should get the flu shot in order to protect these children.

In addition to getting the flu shot,

• Stay home if you are sick; the flu is contagious for up to seven days after symptoms begin
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds
• Use alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze
• Boost your immune system by eating healthy foods, getting enough rest and exercise
• Clean and disinfect objects

For more information, visit Tompkins County's website at www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health.