Here are the highlights:

* As of Thursday, Jan. 28, a cumulative prorated total of 147,301,010 vaccine doses had been made available nationwide for ordering since vaccine shipping began.

* People should get a flu vaccine every year because after being vaccinated, your immunity declines over time and may be too low to provide protection after a year.

* Centers for Disease Control continue to encourage people to get vaccinated throughout the flu season, which can last as late as May. Flu seasons are unpredictable, including when they begin, how severe they are, how long they last, and which viruses will spread.

There were more uncertainties than usual going into this flu season (2009-2010) because of the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (previously called "novel H1N1" or "swine flu"). While flu activity has declined since the late fall, there are still uncertainties surrounding the rest of this flu season, including the possibility of the circulation of seasonal influenza viruses and ongoing circulation of 2009 H1N1 viruses.

In past pandemics, flu activity has occurred in waves and it's possible that the United States could experience another wave in the winter or spring. In addition, sporadic cases of influenza may also be detected in the summer.

Just a reminder regarding the NorthBay and VacaValley Hospital's visiting policy, which aims to protect our patients and visitors. Visits should still be limited whenever possible, and children under 16 should not be in the hospital except in the main and Emergency Department lobbies, or in cafeterias. In certain cases, there can be exceptions, but only if approved by a manager or the administrator in charge.

If you have questions or need help, please ask for security to help you.Wash your hands.

The life you save may just be your own.

Here's to your health! Be well.