People 'at risk' urged to get flu shots now People 'at risk' urged to get flu shots now (October 19, 2005)

The county health department is urging people 65 years and older, children ages 6 to 23 months, pregnant women and others considered at high risk of complications from influenza to get a flu shot sooner rather than later.

The high-risk group also includes those with asthma, diabetes, heart disease and liver disease.

"These folks are particularly susceptible to developing pneumonia from influenza, and this can lead to hospitalization, or even death," according to Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County's health officer.

The county offers flu clinics for people 60 years and older and other adults with long-term health problems. A $5 donation is requested.

County flu clinics are being held in Woodside and Menlo Park on these dates:

** Saturday, October 22, from 9 to 11 a.m., at Woodside fire station, 3111 Woodside Road in Woodside.

** Friday, November 4, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Little House, 800 Middle Ave. in Menlo Park.

** Mondays, November 7, 14 and 28 and December 5, 12 and 19, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Willow Clinic, 795 Willow Road, Building 334, in Menlo Park.

** Thursdays, November 17 and December 1, 8 and 15, from 9 to 11:30 a.m., at Belle Haven Community Clinic, 100 Terminal Ave. in Menlo Park.

More information on the flu and immunization clinics can be found at the county's "flu hotline," 573-3927, and at smhealth.org/flu.

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