|
Free Flu Shots for People with Neuromuscular Diseases
As in years past, the Muscular Dystrophy Association will provide free flu shots to people in Connecticut who are affected by any of the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases in the Association's program.
Influenza is particularly dangerous to people with progressive neuromuscular diseases, because muscle damage can occur in all muscles, including those responsible for breathing. This complication makes influenza hazardous for those who have muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease) or other neuromuscular diseases.
"A respiratory infection caused by the flu can make the healthiest of people sick, but for children and adults with neuromuscular diseases, it can be life-threatening," MDA President and CEO Robert Ross explained. "Because a simple, low-cost flu shot can reduce their chances of getting a potentially serious illness, MDA has long provided this protection at no cost to those we serve."
For more info about obtaining a free flu shot, call the MDA office in Glastonbury at 860-633-4466. Readers may also call MDA headquarters at 800-572-1717, or visit <www.mdausa.org>.
MDA is a voluntary health agency providing services, research and professional and public health education. The Association's programs are funded almost entirely by individual private contributors.
| 
