To: National Desk

Contact: Lisa Cohen of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, 310-395-2544 or lisa.cohen32@verizon.net

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) launched a national campaign today to urge older Americans to take advantage of no cost flu shots available to them through Medicare. Nearly 30 percent of Older Americans -- and an even higher percentage of minority elders -- are not immunized for flu each year. Older adults are at higher risk for complications from the flu, which can be life threatening. Flu season can begin as early as October and may last through March. The best time to get immunized for flu is in October or November; however December or later is still recommended, if a person has yet to be immunized.

"One of the goals of the Aging Network is to help older adults remain living independently, and remaining healthy is central to maintaining independence," said Sandy Markwood, CEO of n4a. "The Aging network has the capacity to reach millions of seniors and our message this fall is simple: one shot -- that costs nothing for people over 65 -- can help them remain living independently and all they have to do is go get it!"

All adults 65 and older are advised to get a flu shot. People with Medicare who are under 65 and who have chronic illness, including heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or end-stage renal disease should also seek immunization. Because the vaccine for flu changes each year, it is important to be immunized every fall or winter. You cannot get the flu from a flu shot. Pneumococcal vaccination is generally given once a lifetime after age 65.

"We are quickly approaching the height of flu season and the single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year," said Dr. James Randolph Farris, Regional Administrator with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. "Each year an average of 36,000 Americans die from influenza or its complications. Many deaths are among older adults. It is important that both older adults and their caregivers be immunized. Medicare covers the cost for both influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, with no out-of-pocket cost to the Medicare beneficiary."

For more information on the My Health, My Medicare initiative, beneficiaries and those who are assisting them can visit http://www.mymedicare.gov and http://www.medicare.gov. Visit http://www.n4a.org for more information on the campaign.

http://www.usnewswire.com/

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/© 2006 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/

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