WHAT

On Sunday, December 5, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is launching its fifth annual National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW). This week is an opportunity to highlight the importance and safety of flu vaccination, and to encourage individuals and families to get their flu vaccine during and after the holiday season.

This is the first year that everyone 6 months and older is recommended to receive an annual flu vaccine; therefore, NIVW efforts aim to reach people of all ages – including people who are at high risk for developing flu-related complications.

NIVW activities will begin at various faith and community-based organizations all over the United States this weekend and continue through next weekend. The Surgeon General, Dr. Regina Benjamin will speak at Bishop T.D. Jakes' Dallas mega church, The Potter's House. The historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. served as pastor will also host activities.

WHEN

Sunday, December 5, 2010 – NIVW Kickoff

BACKGROUND

Influenza (the flu) is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. The first and most important step in protecting against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season, especially before the traditional winter peak in flu activity. For a complete listing of NIVW activities—and details on the seasonal flu—visit www.flu.gov/getvaccinated.