H1N1 vaccine on its way
October 6, 2009
St. Charles County, MO
The first doses of H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine are expected to be delivered to health care providers in St. Charles County later this week. It is being shipped directly from the vaccine manufacturer, which should reduce or eliminate any delay in getting it out to those who need it. The first shipment consists of 1,900 doses of live attenuated influenza vaccine, which is given to patients as a nasal spray.
This vaccine is licensed for use in children ages 2 through adults age 49 who do not have any chronic medical conditions. It is not licensed for use in pregnant women, children under the age of 2, adults over 49, or anyone with a chronic medical condition. Those who are interested in obtaining the vaccine should call their health care provider to inquire about availability. Vaccine will not be available through the health department.
“While this first shipment is small, it is important to remember that more vaccine is on its way. In addition, providers are receiving this first shipment weeks earlier than initially projected,” said Gil Copley, director of the St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment. “While this first batch of vaccine will be used up quickly, people should remain calm and be patient. We expect more doses to arrive weekly, including the inactivated formulation, or flu shot. As these shipments arrive over the next several weeks, health care providers will be able to vaccinate more members of our community against H1N1.”
In the meantime, people are encouraged to follow proven disease prevention methods such as good hand washing, not touching their face, and keeping a distance from people who are sick. People should also stay home when sick to avoid spreading viruses to others. More tips and information are available by visiting www.FightTheFluMO.com.
The St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment is committed to the protection and enhancement of health and the quality of life for all members of our community. For more information, call 636-949-7400 or visit www.scchealth.org.
From the Department of Community Health and the Environment.
Copyright 2009 Neighbors About Town
