The holidays can create ideal conditions for viruses to spread, which means those who haven ™t gotten a vaccination yet still have an important window of opportunity to protect themselves and their families from H1N1, said Allan Khoury, Chief Medical Officer, Take Care Health Systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 15 percent of Americans have been infected with H1N1 influenza, which means that the majority of the population is still susceptible to the virus.

CDC data shows that in most flu seasons, influenza activity peaks after the New Year. Over the past 26 seasons, the heaviest flu activity occurred in January or later 80 percent of the time, CDC records show.

Pneumococcal Vaccinations and H1N1 ™s Link to Life-Threatening Pneumonia

According to the CDC, the H1N1 virus can cause life-threatening pneumonia more commonly than seasonal flu. Additionally, pneumococcal infections have been identified as the most common complication in severe and fatal cases of 2009 H1N1 virus infection.

Walgreens offers pneumococcal vaccinations in most states, and they are also available at all Take Care Clinics. Shots are $49.99 and may be covered by insurance plans. For more information on pneumococcal vaccine and infection, visit www.cdc/vaccines.

Pneumococcal vaccinations, which are covered by Medicare, are recommended for all adults over age 65. Pneumococcal vaccinations are also recommended for anyone with a chronic illness, such as heart or lung disease or diabetes, as well as for individuals with a weak immune system.

Seasonal flu shots are still available at most Take Care Clinics. Customers can visit www.takecarehealth or call 1-866-Take Care for the nearest clinic location and to confirm vaccine availability.

Source: Walgreens