Mega Doctor News
El PASO, Texas – The City of El Paso Department of Public Health continues to record new influenza cases in the local community. During this flu season, which includes the latter part of 2014, a total of 4,640 cases of the flu have been recorded. This is compared to the 2,815 cases reported during the 2013-14 flu season. So far, two flu related deaths have been reported for the entire flu season. The Department of Public Health would like to remind residents to practice the “4 C’s” which have proven to be effective in preventing the spread of the flu virus.
* CLEAN – Wash your hands often. Scrub your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
* COVER – Cover your cough. Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Don’t have a tissue? The crook of your elbow will do.
* CONTAIN – Contain germs by steering clear of others who are sick. If you do get sick, stay home until you’re well again, so you don’t spread more germs.
* CALL – Call or see your doctor if you or your child has a fever of greater than 100 degrees.
Local seniors are also reminded that the flu vaccine is still available free of charge, via the Vaccinations for Health program. Residents of El Paso and Hudspeth Counties who are 50 years of age or older and are either on Medicaid or are not insured qualify to receive the flu vaccine as well as a basic health screening, pneumonia vaccine, and a colorectal cancer screening kit. The next Vaccinations for Health events will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on
February 21, 2015: Station 2, 111 E. Borderland Rd.
February 28, 2015: Mary Webb Park, 3401 East Missouri
In addition to this service, the Department’s Immunization program is offering flu vaccines to children ages six months to 18-years-old who are covered by Medicaid (ALL Texas Medicaid plans accepted), are underinsured, or do not have health insurance, and who meet eligibility requirements. The cost is $10.00. Adult vaccines are also available through the Department of Health but quantities are limited and the cost is $40.00. Clients are urged to contact the clinic of their choice to verify availability of both the children’s and adult vaccines prior to their visit. Residents may also consult with their primary care provider or a local retail outlet of their choice in order to obtain the adult vaccine. For more information contact the appointments desk at (915) 212-6555.
These services support the City of El Paso’s strategic goal to nurture and promote a healthy, sustainable community. For more information on the programs and services offered by the Department of Public Health, visit EPHealth.com or dial 2-1-1.
