Plenty of vaccine for a LOT more people!
That's the official announcement today as the State Health Department begins its FLU shot season.
The 2002 crop of flu vaccine is now in refrigerators around the state, ready to go, as clinics prepare to open their doors.
State Health says vaccine is plentiful this year - but only if people follow a reasonable schedule. This year - the demand may be greater - since as we reported last week, the CDC is recommending shots not only for adults but children six months and older.
Linda Abel, R.N./Immunization Program Manager "THE AGE GROUP IS FROM SIX MONTHS ON UP. THOSE THAT ARE YOUNGER THAN NINE NEED TO HAVE A SPLIT DOSE A MONTH APART. AND SO AGAIN, WE WOULD JUST ASK THAT YOU SEE YOUR PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER."
For adults, clinics this year will again give high risk groups first priority.
Those who should get their shots this week and thru October:
-
People 65 and older.
-
Residents of nursing homes who have long term illnesses.
-
Health care workers and others taking care of sick people in clinics, hospitals or at home.
-
Adults and children over six months of age with chronic heart or lung problems or weakened immune systems.
-
Children and teens on aspirin therapy - at risk for Reye Syndrome.
-
Women who will become three months pregnant during the flu season.
For ALL OTHERS!
ED YEATES, EYEWITNESS NEWS: "AGAIN, STATE HEALTH SAYS EXCEPT FOR HIGH RISK GROUPS, DON'T RUSH TO GET A SHOT. GETTING THE SHOT IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER WILL PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION FOR MOST PEOPLE ESPECIALLY SINCE HERE THE FLU SEASON USUALLY DOESN'T ARRIVE UNTIL AFTER THE FIRST OF THE YEAR."
In addition to flu protection, those 50 and older should also consider getting a pneumonia shot. It's given only once and usually provides lifetime protection. Ed Yeates, Eyewitness News.
