State expands H1N1 vaccine to all residents; local clinics planned
By: Health Insurance
Submitted: 2009-12-22 13:01:24 | Word Count: 460
All Michigan residents are now eligible to get the H1N1 influenza vaccine as more than 2.1 million doses of the vaccine has been ordered in Michigan. The state Department of Community Health announced Tuesday that due to the availability of the vaccine, it is lifting the high-risk group restrictions.
The Midland County Department of Public Health is working to set up a public clinic as well as coordinate vaccine sites with the Midland Public Schools, said Fred Yanoski, public health preparedness coordinator, on Tuesday, No other information was available as of this morning.
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Meanwhile, the Saginaw County Department of Public Health has scheduled an H1N1 vaccine clinic for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at The Dow Event Center, 303 Johnson St. There is no charge for the vaccine. Saginaw County residents wishing to get the vaccine for themselves or their children should bring proof of identification, and are encouraged to bring insurance cards with them to clinics, if available.
Any child 9 years old or younger, who received the first dose of the H1N1 flu vaccine on or before Nov. 14, can obtain the necessary second dose of the vaccine during the Saginaw clinic. Parents and guardians must bring their child's influenza vaccination record in order to receive the second dose. It is expected that nasal Flu Mist vaccine will be administered at the Saginaw clinic unless specific illnesses or conditions prevent its use. The injections only will be given to those who cannot take the nasal vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccines have not been associated with any unexpected adverse events or possible side effects.
While all residents will be eligible for vaccine, health officials strongly encourage vaccination for pregnant women, people who live with or care for children less than 6 months of age, all people 6 months to 24 years, and people 25 to 64 years with chronic medical conditions.
"We encourage everyone to get vaccinated because it is the best way to prevent the flu," said Dr. Greg Holzman, chief medical executive for MDCH. "The more people who are immune, the less likely the virus will spread in our communities."
In addition to being vaccinated, Michigan residents can help stop the spread of the virus by washing hands thoroughly and often; covering mouths when sneezing or coughing, and staying home from work or school if sick.
