October 01, 2008
Onondaga County Health Department Announces
2008 Public Flu and Pneumonia Vaccine Clinics
The Onondaga County Health Department, in cooperation with Maxim Health Systems and Visiting Nurse Association of CNY, Inc., has released the 2008 public flu and pneumonia vaccine clinic schedule. Onondaga County Health Department has scheduled fifteen flu vaccine clinics throughout Onondaga County beginning Wednesday, October 22 through Wednesday, November 26, 2008. Cynthia Morrow, MD, MPH, Commissioner of Health for Onondaga County, explained, "Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent getting the flu. It is essential that individuals at high-risk for complications of the flu get a flu vaccine every year. This year there should be an adequate supply of flu vaccine for everyone." Starting today, Onondaga County residents can schedule appointments either online at www.onflu.net or by phone at 435-5752. The public is encouraged to make their appointment now for an upcoming flu vaccine clinic.
Individuals with access to a computer and an email account can schedule a flu vaccine appointment on-line anytime, 24 hours a day. Friends and/or family members can schedule an appointment for those who do not have web access. Individuals can make up to ten appointments for themselves, family and/or friends. The on-line service also includes information about: locations and directions to clinics, what you need to bring to your appointment, and general information about both flu and pneumonia prevention. This appointment scheduling system has been implemented to enhance patient service before and during a flu/pneumonia vaccine appointment.
Influenza vaccination recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been expanded to recommend that all children 6 months to 18 years of age receive a flu vaccine each year. To support this recommendation, the Onondaga County Health Department has scheduled six family clinics that will provide flu vaccines for children and their families. Children under the age of nine who have never had a flu shot series before will need two doses of vaccine (the second shot should be given one month after the first shot). Therefore, starting the two-step process in October is encouraged so that both doses of vaccine are given before the start of flu season. FluMistâ will also be available for healthy children ages 2-18 at the six family clinics. FluMistâ is a vaccine that is sprayed inside the nose and is an alternative to traditional flu shots. Those individuals over 18 years of age who are interested in FluMist® are advised to contact their health care provider.
For the 2008 flu season, the CDC has recommended that the following individuals get a flu vaccine:
· People 50 years old and older
· All children 6 months to 18 years old, especially those on long-term aspirin treatment
· Residents of long-term care facilities
· People with medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney problems, cancer or blood disorders
· People with certain disorders such as stroke and seizure disorder that increase the risk of fluid getting into the lungs.
· People with a weakened immune system
· Women who will be pregnant during flu season (late fall through early spring)
An annual flu vaccine is also recommended for anyone who lives or cares for people who are at high risk for flu complications. This includes:
· Health care providers (employees at hospitals, long-term care facilities and home care providers.)
· Household contacts and caregivers of children under 5 years old or adults over 50. This is especially important for caregivers of children under 6 months of age, since young infants are too young to receive the vaccine themselves.
· People who live with or care for children or adults with chronic medical conditions.
Flu vaccine is also recommended for anyone who wants to reduce their risk of becoming ill with influenza and spreading it to others.
Appointments for a flu or pneumonia vaccine are necessary and should be made in advance. Clinics are open to Onondaga County residents. Payment accepted for the flu vaccine includes: Medicare Part B, Medicaid, cash or check. The cost is $30 for an adult flu shot, $15 for children's flu shot or FluMist®, and $45 for a pneumonia shot. However, no one will be turned away due to his or her inability to pay. To schedule an appointment for a flu vaccine, log onto www.onflu.net or call the flu hotline at 435-5752.
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