Brooklyn – The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is encouraging New Yorkers to get a flu shot. For most people, the flu is a nuisance that means a week or more of headaches and coughs, but for some people it can be a serious illness. In 2006, the flu and pneumonia were associated with over 2,500 deaths in New York City; it is the third leading cause of death in New York City.

“Flu shots can significantly reduce the number of deaths and hospitalizations per year, and that is why I am happy to work with the Department of Health to make flu shots readily available to everyone in the city of New York,” Felder stated.

DOHMH recommends that people 50 and older, children ages 6 months to five years, people with chronic health conditions, pregnant women and health care workers get a flu shot every year.

DOHMH will offer flu shots citywide at clinics and health care facilities throughout the flu season. Next Monday, November 3rd from 9:30- 2:30, there will be flu shots available at Sephardic Bikur Holim at 425 Kings Highway. You must call them at 718-787-1800 for an appointment. In addition, there are flu outreach programs in many of our senior centers as well as a number of locations where you can walk in to get a flu shot. Call my district office at 718-853-2704 for more information.

(YWN Desk – NYC)