NOW is the time to call your healthcare provider or get a shot at a local clinic or drugstore.
• It takes several weeks to build up antibodies to the influenza viruses contained in the vaccine
• Momentary pinch of a needle greatly outweighs being very ill for a week or longer
• Serious complications from flu can occur, particularly among the elderly, those with asthma, compromised immune systems and infants too young to be vaccinated. Consider the health of those around you.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• A woman’s best chance for survival is finding breast cancer early through regularly scheduled mammograms
• Erie County Cancer Services Program provides free breast screening with mammography,
• diagnostics and access to treatment coverage, if needed
o Network of over 100 health providers across Erie County, including many private
practice locations
o Services available to uninsured as well as the underinsured who may have a high
deductible plan with unaffordable out of pocket costs
• United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends a mammogram every two
years for women between 50 and 74 years of age
o Women ages 40–49 years old are encouraged to talk to their health care provider
• Contact the Erie County Cancer Services Program at 716-858-7376, or visit their website at www.cspwny.org for additional information
DEA—National Drug Drop-off Day, Sat. October 22nd 10am-2pm
• The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day ? safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs
• Also educates the general public about the potential for abuse of medications
• 1-800-882-9539 to find a location or visit dea.gov and click on link for “Got Drugs?” or “National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day”
Safe Halloween Practices/Tips
• Swords, knives, and other costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.
• Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. WALK and don't run from house to house.
• Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
• Look both ways before crossing the street. Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
• Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
• Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.
• Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
For more information: Erie County Department of Health – www.erie.gov/health
