County has H1N1, seasonal flu shots
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on December 3, 2009 1:46 PM
The Wayne County Health Department has 4,000 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine and received 320 more doses of the injectable seasonal flu vaccine this week, which will be available to the public while supplies last.
Health Director James Roosen said Wednesday there are plenty of the H1N1 vaccines available to the public, at no charge.
Officials at the Health Department also announced two flu clinics scheduled for later this month.
Seasonal flu vaccines will be given to anyone 6 months old and up, and by appointment only.
Cost of the shot is $25. Medicaid and Medicare will absorb the cost for those with coverage.
A seasonal flu clinic providing the flu mist for school-age children up to 19 years old who do not have asthma or other health risks will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. No appointments are necessary, but those unable to make it during the listed times are asked to call 731-1000 to schedule a time to receive the vaccine.
The H1N1 clinic will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, at the Health Department from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The clinic is open to everyone.
While appointments are not necessary, a system was set up to promote faster processing. Individuals are asked to report according to the following schedule, by the first letter of the last name: A-J from 7:30-10 a.m., K-R from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., and S-Z from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
The H1N1 injectable vaccine and the H1N1 mist are being offered at no cost, officials said.
Anyone can receive the H1N1 vaccine, but those in the five initial target groups -- pregnant women, persons living with or providing care for infants younger than 6 months old, health care and emergency medical service personnel, children and young adults 6 months to 24 years old, and those 25-64 years old considered at high risk because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems -- are encouraged to get the vaccine promptly.
Provisions will also be made for handicapped or non-ambulatory clients to remain in their vehicles to receive the vaccine. Drive-in parking will be available on the Simmons Street side of the Health Department.
A friend or family member will first need to register those individuals via the Herman Street and Lionel Street entrances of the county office building.
For more information, call the Health Department at 731-1000.