WATERTOWN -- If you're a smoker or are exposed to second-hand smoke, get flu shot. That's the recommendation today from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
We already know inhaling tobacco products like cigarette smoke is harmful to your immune system. But did you know it creates a perfect environment for influenza or pneumonia to develop? The CDC suggests everyone over the age of 6-months-old get a flu shot. But, they say, it is even more important for those who smoke or are exposed to smoke second-hand.
Here are some other interesting facts to consider: People who smoke face a higher risk of death from the flu than non-smokers. Also, studies show an increased risk of flu-related infection compared to non-smokers.
Getting the flue shot, however, is not the only precaution you should take. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) urges adult smokers (anyone over 19-years-old) to get the pneumonia vaccine. Statistics show smokers are about four times more likely to develop pneumococcal disease than non-smokers.
For those of you in Jefferson County, you can get a flu shot and pneumococcal vaccine every Wednesday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Jefferson County Public Health Service on Meade Street in Watertown.
The flu shot is $35 per person and the pneumococcal vaccine is $25 a person. Click here to make an appointment.
For help quitting smoking, call 1-866-NY-QUITS or click here.
