CORTLANDTMost Cortlandt residents are still worried about burning under the August sun, but employees of the Hudson Valley Hospital Center are gearing up for flu season. Signs have been posted around the hospital reminding employees to get vaccinated before flu season starts.
The best way to keep from getting the flu is to get vaccinated, said Barbara Savatteri, registered nurse and Director of Infectious Disease Control at the hospital. It is especially important for hospital employees to be vaccinate early on so that they will not spread infection to our patients and so that they can remain healthy to be able to care for our patients.
While the flu season didnt peak last year until February, according to the Center for Disease Control, flu vaccines are available as early as September, and flu season often gets moving around October. TAMIFLU is available through May, but the best time to get vaccinated is October or November, said Savatteri.
Speak to your healthcare provider about the flu vaccine, said Savatteri. The vaccine is widely available this year. October and November are the best times to get a flu shot, but it is never too late.
Hospital employees receive free vaccinations through the employee health program starting in October. Westchester County does not provide free flu vaccinations, although they have listed several pharmacies and clinics where the shot is available on its website. Putnam County health officials offer several clinics on the flu vaccine.
Savatteri also recommends several simple ways to keep from getting sick. Drink plenty of water, eat healthy, and most importantly, wash your hands.Other tips include staying away from sick people, not sharing personal items, like towels or cups, and cleaning common items like phones and keyboards.
Visit the New York State Department of Health website for more information on communicable diseases.
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