DHSS Press Release |
Date: October 6, 2015 DHSS-10-2015 |
| Rita Landgraf, Secretary Jill Fredel, Director of Communications 302-255-9047, Cell 302-357-7498 Email: jill.fredel@state.de.us |
MEDIA ADVISORY
NEW CASTLE COUNTY FLU IMMUNIZATION DRILL AND EVENT
| WHO: | The Honorable Jack Markell, Governor, State of Delaware Rita Landgraf, Secretary, Delaware Health and Social Services Karyl Rattay, MD, MS, Director, Division of Public Health (DPH), DHSS Nick Fina, Ed.D., State Council for Persons with Disabilities and Employment First Oversight Commission |
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| WHAT: | DPH will launch its 2015-2016 flu prevention efforts by offering free influenza vaccinations to the public, with a special focus on vaccinations for people with disabilities. Every October DPH holds a mass flu immunization emergency preparedness drill at the New Castle County Farmer's Market. Among other things, this year the drill will test DPH's ability to quickly and efficiently serve people with disabilities and ensure their needs are met as part of a larger vaccination event. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older receive their flu vaccinations each year, as early as possible. The flu is highly unpredictable and a significant health threat. In 2014, Delaware had 28 reported flu-related deaths, far greater than the four deaths reported during the prior flu season. |
| WHEN: | Friday, October 9, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (press event) Free vaccinations available to the public from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. |
| WHERE: | New Castle Farmers Market, outside under tents. (In case of rain, it will be indoors; use Door #6 facing Route 13.) 110 N. DuPont Hwy. New Castle, DE 19720 |
| VISUALS: | Governor Markell, Secretary Landgraf, and Dr. Rattay to receive their flu vaccinations. DPH nurses will administer intramuscular flu vaccine to members of the public. Clients who sign a media consent form may be photographed. |
| QUESTIONS: | 302-744-4704 and www.flu.delaware.gov |
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
