VCPH Flu Vaccine Clinics and Other Flu Vaccine Locations in Ventura County

Ventura County Public Health reports increase in flu cases, rise in demand for influenza vaccine

The nation’s widespread outbreak of the flu has caused an increase in flu cases in California and a sudden surge in demand for the flu vaccine in Ventura County. Ventura County’s Public Health (VCPH) Department reports that the phones have been busier than normal with people calling in to find out where and when they can get a flu shot.

According to a report received today from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), flu levels in California are now significantly higher than what is normally expected this time of year. Over the past week, flu levels across the state have jumped up by ten percent.

 “This year’s vaccine is a good match for the flu strains that are circulating so we encourage everyone who has not yet been vaccinated to get a flu shot now and protect themselves.” said Dr. Paul Russell, Deputy Health Officer for Ventura County Public Health. “It is especially important for those who are the most vulnerable to be vaccinated - the very young, very old and those with chronic illness.”

TEEN VACCINE CLINIC IN OXNARD ON SUNDAY, FEB 10TH NOON TO 2PM

Ventura County Public Health clinics are offering flu vaccines for people of all ages on a first come, first served basis during normal business hours at their four Public Health clinic locations. Hours are 8:30 – 11:30 am and 1 – 4:30 PM and shots are offered on the days indicated:

South Oxnard Public Health: Centerpoint Mall, 2500 South C St. Suite B-1, Oxnard (Mon – Fri)

North Oxnard Public Health 2240 E. Gonzalez Rd., Suite 140, Oxnard (Tues. & Thurs.)

Ventura Public Health 3147 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura (Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri.)

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Over-the-Counter Medicine Do's and Don'ts That May Come in Handy

When it comes to minor ailments, I usually just wing it or ask my wife. That's why I enjoyed a recent article entitled "The Medicine Cabinet Quiz" in the Wall St. Journal where author Melinda Beck highlighted some useful basics about over-the counter medicines. With Beck's permission I've summed up some of the advice she compiled from experts.

What to Take for a Headache

Advil (ibuprofen), Tylenol (acetaminophen) and aspirin all help a headache but through different means. Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen sodium) and aspirin reduce inflammation and thus relieve headaches, arthritis, muscle sprains and so on. But they can cause stomach bleeding.

Aspirin also helps prevent blood clots and thus taken daily can reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, but shouldn't be used if you have low blood pressure or open wounds.

Tylenol calms pain signals in the brain but can cause liver damage if you drink too much or take too much.

Ibuprofen agruably is strongest but aspirin works faster, naproxen lasts longer and acetaminophen is safer if you have stomach problems and aren't a heavy drinker.

How to Treat a Muscle Sprain

Sprain your ankle, what do you do? Heat and ice both can help. Heat relaxes the nerves, cold numbs them and both bring more blood circulation to the area.

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