
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 vaccination each year.
For information on Flu Shot Clinics in Suffolk County,
please call the Suffolk County Health Department at 631- 853-3055
As a community service, Eastern Long Island Hospital offers flu shots each year in the early Fall season by appointment ONLY. Watch your local newspaper for details of when the vaccine is available or call (631) 477-5341.
A nominal fee of $25 is charged, however Medicare/Medicaid assignment is accepted.
In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, it is recommended that certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications.
People who should get vaccinated each year are:
People at high risk for complications from the flu, including:
- Children aged 6 months until their 5th birthday
- Pregnant women
- People 50 years of age and older
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
- People who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities
- People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
- Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu (see above)
- Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)
- Healthcare workers