MDA Offers FREE Flu Shots for People with Neuromuscular Diseases

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MDA Offers FREE Flu Shots for People with Neuromuscular Diseases

http://www.mdausa.org/news/051003flu_shots.html

TUCSON, Ariz., Oct. 3, 2005 – As it's done for several decades, the

Muscular Dystrophy Association will this year again provide free flu

shots to people with any of the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases

in the Association's program.

Having a progressive neuromuscular disease that damages the muscles

responsible for lung function makes influenza much riskier. It's

particularly dangerous for those with muscular dystrophy, spinal

muscular atrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's

disease) and other neuromuscular diseases.

" Respiratory infections caused by a flu virus can become very

dangerous for children and adults with neuromuscular diseases whose

respiratory systems may already be weakened, " said MDA President &

CEO Ross. " For this reason, MDA provides those we serve with

free flu shots to reduce their chances of getting a potentially

serious illness. "

MDA provides thousands of free flu shots annually. For more

information about obtaining a free flu shot for someone with a

neuromuscular disease, call the nearest MDA office. Dial (800) 572-

1717 or visit the MDA Web site at 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.