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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010 |
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Individuals with Diabetes and Asthma are at Higher Risk for H1N1 ComplicationsDENVER– State health officials today said they have seen increased rates of H1N1 influenza among Latinos and African-Americans this flu season and urged them to get an H1N1 vaccination. Ned Calonge, chief medical officer at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, said, “Colorado is a state with high asthma and diabetes rates, especially among the Latino and African-American population. Because these chronic diseases increase a person’s risk of experiencing complications from H1N1, all individuals with asthma or diabetes, including individuals of color, should seriously consider getting vaccinated.” Calonge said that in these tough economic times, it’s important for families not to miss work. “Getting a flu shot can prevent family members from getting sick and having to miss work or school,” he said. “Local health departments are offering H1N1 vaccinations for free. We urge people to take advantage of this opportunity to get the flu vaccine and stay healthy during the flu season and beyond.” Individuals seeking flu clinics may visit the Colorado Adult Immunization Coalition’s Web site at http://www.immunizecolorado.com or call Colorado’s CO HELP hotline at 1-877-462-2911. Bilingual operators are available to answer questions about the flu and direct callers to a flu clinic. ---30--- |
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