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MORE THAN 1 MILLION PEOPLE RECEIVE FLU VACCINE THIS SEASON

People Still Urged to Get Immunized as Flu Cases Rise in State

MADISON—State health officials are encouraged that more than one million people in Wisconsin have received their flu shot this season, particularly as flu cases begin to rise. There are currently 264 reported cases of influenza statewide, although it is expected that number is higher since influenza is not a reportable disease and many people do not go to the doctor when they are ill.

“There’s still time to get immunized, particularly as we start to see an increase in influenza cases in the state,” said Secretary Karen Timberlake. “Vaccine is available and we urge individuals to get their flu shot if they haven’t already since it will take a few weeks for you to become protected.”

According to data entered into the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, there are currently, 1,002,919 people across Wisconsin who have received their influenza vaccine this season. Health care providers, clinicians and local health departments across the state enter the vaccinations they have administered into the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR). The WIR is a secure online database that electronically tracks the immunizations the person has received, as well as the list of vaccines recommended.

“This registry is an important tool to help doctors, nurses, school officials and individuals keep track of immunizations, especially when the family moves or changes health care plans so they can prevent lapses in immunizations or unnecessary repeat vaccinations.”

Immunization providers have posted information to the Wisconsin Immunization Registry since 1999. Access to the Wisconsin Immunization Registry is free and available at http://dhfsWIR.org. To see your immunization record, click on “Public Immunization Record Access.” Parents and guardians can perform a search for their child’s immunization record using first name, last name, date of birth, and either a social security or Medicaid ID number.

For those who have not yet received a flu shot, it is recommended for those who are at an increased risk for developing complications from influenza. This includes children 6 months through 18 years old, adults older than 50, and those with compromised immune systems. Contact your health care provider or local health department to be immunized.

For more information about influenza, go to http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/factsheets/Influenza.htm

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Last Revised:  February 13, 2009