Actress and mother, Sarah Chalke, widely known for her fole as a doctor on the hit TV series, Scrubs, talked to Local 7 Lifestyles about the American Lung Association's Faces of Influenza national awareness campaign to educate the public about the seriousness of the flu and to encourage families across the country to help protect themselves against this potentially deadly illness by getting vaccinated this and every year.
Influenza is
a serious respiratory illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Because everyone is at risk of contracting and spreading influenza, the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual vaccination for
everyone 6 months of age and older. This year, in particular, it's
important for parents to know the CDC recommends that children ages 6 months to
8 years who are getting a flu shot for the first time receive two doses
about one month apart for the best protection.
Vaccination
is safe and effective, and is the best way to help prevent influenza. With
vaccination options available for children, adults and seniors, people should
talk with their health care provider
to find the option that's right for
them and their families this season.