Health District Steps Up Flu Prevention Initiative

The Newtown Health District and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) are recommending residents “Take Action to Fight the Flu,” according to District Director Donna Culbert.

Residents can do this by taking time to get vaccinated and taking everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of flu, which include:

*Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then, throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

*Washing your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

*Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.

*Trying to avoid close contact with sick people.

*If you are sick with flulike illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)

*While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

Ms Culbert reminds residents that flu shot clinics are happening at the following locations:

October 15 from 10 am to noon at the Coldwell Banker office, South Main Street

October 16 from 10 am to 1 pm at the Newtown Middle School

(for Newtown School District students only)

October 19 from 9 am to noon at the Newtown Senior Center

October 26 from 10 am to noon at the Caraluzzi’s, Queen Street

October 26 from 9 to 11 am at the Newtown Senior Center

At the CVS Pharmacy at 6 Queen Street individuals can walk in or can make an appointment online at www.cvs.com or call 203-426-2595.

The Newtown VNA is subsidizing the cost of shots for Newtown residents who do not have health insurance at the Danbury and Bethel VNA clinics. 

In addition, residents who do not have health insurance and are Kevin’s Community Center patients will also be able to get flu shots with no charge through KCC.