News Releases

Protect yourself this flu season by following Southwest Ambulance’s lead

Mesa, Ariz.  (October 11, 2012)  - With the unwelcome flu season upon us, Southwest Ambulance is taking the lead by vaccinating crews and support employees on Monday, October 15 at its Mesa headquarters. The free flu shot for employees ensures they are better prepared to battle the flu season.

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu season is typically from October through as late as May, with up to 20 percent of the U.S. population contracting the flu each year. With so many people potentially affected by the flu, being armed with facts, prevention tips and the flu vaccine can have a significant impact on your health and the health of those around you.

The media is invited to join Southwest Ambulance while our team receives their flu shots. Learn the importance of flu shots for the general public and other important health and safety tips for the upcoming flu season.

What:  Photo/Interview Opportunity as Southwest Ambulance Employees Receive Flu Shots
When:  Monday, October 15 from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Where:  708 W. Baseline Road in Mesa

Influenza and Vaccine Information: 
                                                                     
• Anyone 6 months or older can get the flu vaccine.
• The flu vaccine is widely accepted by the CDC and healthcare professionals as the best defense against the virus, but it isn’t a guarantee that a vaccinated person will not contract the virus.
• In addition to the flu vaccine, everyday precautions, including regular hand washing, using alcohol based sanitizers and surface wipes, covering your nose and mouth if you cough or sneeze, and avoiding interaction with someone infected with the flu will aid prevention.
• Those with an increased risk of suffering complications from the flu, including pregnant woman, individuals aged 65 or older, people with certain medical conditions and their caregivers, should seriously consider getting the vaccine.

According to the 2011 Walgreens Flu Impact Report, Americans missed more than 10 million work days during the 2010 flu season, costing employees $7 million in lost wages. Additionally, children missed 32 million school days during the same season. The flu shot is one of the most effective ways to be protected against the virus, along with healthy habits and everyday precautions.

For more information about Southwest Ambulance, visit www.swambulance.com
For more information about the flu season, the vaccine and vaccine locations visit: www.cdc.gov/flu

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For more information contact:
Holly Walter, Communications & Media Manager
Southwest Ambulance
480.273.7111