Expanded Flu Shot Hours Offered to Boost Vaccination Rates
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To improve vaccination coverage, health officials are expanding flu shot hours at several locations. The extended hours aim to accommodate individuals who cannot get vaccinated during regular business hours. The initiative includes weekend availability at Park Shopping, making flu shots more accessible to the community.
Extended Hours at Health Units
Sence Monday, the Health Surveillance (VS) of the Secretariat of Health has implemented a special vaccination schedule at Basic Health Units (UBS). Immunization is available for individuals six months of age and older. Select units, such as Jardim Paulista and Jardim Maria Beatriz, have offered anti-flu shots against the Influenza virus until 7:00 PM. According to VS coordinator vivian Delalibera Custódio, the extended hours are designed to serve those who work and cannot get vaccinated during standard hours.
did You Know? …
Influenza vaccination rates in the U.S. for the 2022-2023 season were approximately 51%, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible vaccination programs 1.
The VS hopes that flexible hours will increase the city’s overall vaccination coverage rate. on specific days, vaccinations are available until 7:00 PM at health units in Jardim Paulista and Maria Beatriz. Extended hours are also offered at the UBS locations in Maria Beatriz (South Zone), Jardim Paulista (North Zone), and seixas (East Zone) on designated days.
Park Shopping Vaccination Campaign
The vaccination campaign extends to Park Shopping on Saturday,offering vaccinations from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM near the food court. This partnership with the Health Department marks another instance of the shopping center providing a vaccination site for its customers.
Pro Tip: …
Check your local health department’s website for the most up-to-date facts on vaccination schedules and locations.
Health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccination for risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and children, while the vaccine is available to the entire population.
Vaccination Schedule
| Day | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Jardim Paulista & Maria Beatriz UBS | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Maria Beatriz, Jardim Paulista & Seixas UBS | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | Paulista & Maria Beatriz UBS | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Friday | Santa Clara, Maria Beatriz & Paulista UBS | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | Park Shopping (near food court) | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends annual influenza vaccination as the most effective way to prevent the disease and its complications 2.
Are you planning to get your flu shot during the extended hours? What other measures do you think could improve vaccination rates?
Understanding Influenza and Vaccination
Influenza,commonly known as the flu,is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness,and at times can lead to death.The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are used to make the vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season 3.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flu Vaccinations
Why is it important to get a flu shot every year?
flu viruses are constantly changing, so the flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most current strains. Annual vaccination ensures you have the best possible protection.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age and older receive an annual flu vaccine, with rare exceptions.
When is the best time to get a flu shot?
It’s generally recommended to get vaccinated before the flu season begins,ideally by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial.
Can the flu vaccine give you the flu?
no, the flu vaccine cannot cause the flu. The injectable flu vaccine contains inactivated (killed) viruses or a single protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains a weakened live virus, but it cannot cause the flu in healthy individuals.
Where can I get a flu shot?
Flu shots are available at many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, pharmacies, and even some shopping centers, as highlighted in this article.
How effective is the flu vaccine?
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies each year and depends on how well the vaccine matches the circulating flu viruses. However, even when the match isn’t perfect, the vaccine can still reduce the severity of illness and prevent complications.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
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