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November 30, 2007
Are you a “face” of influenza?
Jennifer Garner and American Lung Association representatives at the Faces of Influenza national launch event and vaccination clinic in New YorkAre you a “face” of influenza? There is a good chance you are among the more than 220 million Americans recommended to receive the influenza vaccine annually.
That’s more than 2 out of every 3 people in the US. Despite this recommendation, influenza vaccination rates are low, especially among those most vulnerable – including individuals with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.
Nationwide, influenza and its complications cause an average of 36,000 deaths and approximately 226,000 hospitalizations each year. These victims and millions more are the “faces” of influenza – people recommended for annual immunization by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Jennifer Garner and Dean Cain participate in the Faces of Influenza national launch event in New York
The American Lung Association is pleased to be working with actress Jennifer Garner as the national spokesperson for the 2007-2008 Faces of Influenza campaign. Ms. Garner and I recently joined American Lung Association President and CEO Bernadette Toomey and national, state and local leading medical officials to kick off this year’s program with a media briefing and free public vaccination clinic in New York City. Nearly 800 New Yorkers were vaccinated throughout the day. It was great to see so many people roll up their sleeves to help prevent the spread of the influenza virus this season.
Widespread media coverage has appeared via national morning shows; New York City TV and radio news programming; newspapers; online news, health and entertainment outlets; as well as parenting and women’s lifestyle publications. Faces of Influenza activities are continuing across the country this influenza season, including efforts into January and even later.
Influenza is more than just a common cold; it is a serious respiratory illness. Individuals with asthma, lung disease and COPD need to be vaccinated, as well as anyone who lives with or cares for people with these illnesses.
Influenza immunization can continue through the spring. Influenza virus activity typically peaks in February or March, so vaccination throughout the entire influenza season is beneficial and recommended.
For more information about influenza or to use the Flu Clinic Locator please click here.
The American Lung Association’s Faces of Influenza educational initiative, made possible through a collaboration with sanofi pasteur, is designed to reinforce the seriousness of influenza and highlight the safety and effectiveness of annual vaccination throughout the influenza season.
Posted by lungblogposter at November 30, 2007 11:58 AM
