Sunday, February 3, 2013
Early spike in flu cases may not be the last one; officials recommend getting a flu shot.
- GOVERNMENT
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Sunday, February 3
As influenza illness levels begin to subside across the state, the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) reminds all Rhode Islanders that it is not too late to be vaccinated against influenza. “Although we saw an early spike in influenza cases this flu season, it is important to note that we could see the number of influenza cases rise again before the flu season officially ends in May,” said Michael Fine, M.D., director of HEALTH, adding that Rhode Island has seen 769 hospitalizations since the department began tracking confirmed influenza cases on Oct. 1, 2012. That number reflects a higher total number of hospitalizations for influenza than initially reported, as HEALTH’s staff has re-evaluated data reported by the state’s …
Monday, January 14, 2013
It's National Influenza Vaccination Week and this year is shaping up to be one of the worst flu seasons in a while. Did you get your flu shot?
Where can you get a flu shot? RiteAid Pharmacy 7 East Main Road, Middletown No appointment needed. Vaccine available for ages 18-65. 401-849-4600 | Sun-Sat 8AM-9PM As of Monday, Jan. 14, Walgreens in Middletown and CVS locations in Newport and Middletown reported being out of stock. Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Sign up for our newsletter Despite the reported outages, you can still get a flu short through the Rhode Island Department of Health. There is no cost for a vaccination and health insurance is not required. Many clinics also offer Tdap (pertussis, or "whooping cough") and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccinations. Upcoming community clinics across the state: More than one-third of United States residents have already …
Thursday, January 3, 2013
At no cost, anyone can get a free flu shot today. Pneumonia and Tdap vaccines are also available.
Last month, the Rhode Island Department of HEALTH declared flu to be "widespread" in the state, which remains in effect. According to the department, there are approximately 14 flu-related hospitalizations per day and approximately 9% of emergency room visits during the past week have been for influenza-like illness. The influenza vaccine being used this year is a highly accurate match for H3N2, the dominant flu strain in circulation. Flu vaccine is the most effective protection against the flu. Particularly for the elderly, vaccine can prevent hospitalization and death. For those who receive the influenza vaccine but still get the flu, vaccine shortens the duration of the illness and makes symptoms less severe. It also lessens the chances…
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Surgical masks now required for all unimmunized healthcare workers.
- AWARENESS
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Thursday, December 6, 2012
The following was provided by the Rhode Island Department of Health PROVIDENCE – Michael Fine, MD, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), has issued a Declaration of Widespread Flu Incidence Statewide. This declaration triggers Rhode Island’s new regulations requiring all healthcare workers who have not been immunized against influenza to wear a surgical mask during all times of direct patient contact. “Flu is here in Rhode Island, and all signs indicate that this flu season is expected to be more severe than those in recent past,” said Dr. Fine. “We encourage all Rhode Islanders to protect themselves and those around them by being immunized against influenza. Our healthcare workers have an obligation to protect those …
Monday, November 7, 2011
The Rhode Island Department of Health is urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza.
The longer days and cooler temperatures mean winter is approaching. But that's not the only season on the way. In an attempt to keep hospital ERs from filling up with influenza-stricken patients, the Rhode Island Department of Health is urging residents to get their flu shots before the peak of the season begins this winter. “Anyone can get the flu, and the flu will keep you home from work or school for at least a week,” Director of Health Dr. Michael Fine said in a release. “The flu is a serious illness and can be even more serious for the elderly, the very young, and anyone who has a chronic illness. The lack of health insurance or a fee for vaccine administration should not prevent Rhode Islanders from taking this essential step to …
Erika Huntley
10:06 am on Tuesday, January 15, 2013
RiteAid Middletown has received more FLU VACCINE Today and expects another shipment tomorrow. Call 401-849-4600 to reserve or walk-in. RiteAid Middletown: 7 East Main Rd. Middletown. We are open 8am-8pm Monday through Friday, 9am-6pm Saturday and 9am-5pm Sunday. We take all major insurances including Medicare B. Erika JM Huntley, RPh Pharmacy Manager RiteAid 10222 Middletown, RI more ›