U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River) spoke about the importance of flu vaccines at an Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.
The hearing was titled “Flu Season: U.S. Public Health Preparedness and Response.”
“Every year, millions of Americans put themselves at an increased risk of getting the flu because they do not get the flu vaccine,” said Walden. “They also are increasing the risk that individuals who cannot be vaccinated, including young children who are not old enough to get the flu vaccine, will get the flu. If you have not gotten the flu vaccine yet this year, please go get it today.”
He then noted that the population most at risk for flu-related complications are senior citizens.
“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people 65 years and older account for about 70 to 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths in recent years and between 50 to 70 percent of seasonal-flu related hospitalizations,” said Walden.
