The influenza disease is more than just a common cold; it is a serious respiratory illness. Nationwide, influenza and its complications cause an average of 26,000 deaths and approximately 226,000 hospitalizations each year. These victims and thousands more are the “faces” of influenza – people recommended for annual immunization by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To help prevent influenza from spreading and to encourage influenza immunization, the American Lung Association brings Faces of Influenza, a national educational campaign, to West Virginia. This multi-year public awareness initiative helps Americans put a “face” on this serious disease and recognize annual influenza immunization as an important preventative measure to protect themselves and their loved ones.
To learn more about the Faces of Influenza campaign and to locate a flu shot clinic near you visit www.facesofinfluenza.org. Also, check out this interview with Faces of Influenza spokesperson and Olympic Gold Medalist, Kristi Yamaguchi: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/10/13/kristi-yamaguchi-urges-public-to-get-annual-flu-shot/
