[Press Release] : press release

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2005

CONTACT: Heather Baer
         (573) 874-7632 

Health Department to hold flu clinic Nov. 2
									
	(COLUMBIA, MO) - The Columbia-Boone County Health Department will offer flu vaccinations on Wednesday, Nov. 2, to residents who are considered to be at the highest risk of complications resulting from the flu. Vaccinations will be given in the Community Training Room at the health department, 1005 W. Worley Street. Flu vaccinations on Nov. 2 will be given according to the following schedule:
8 a.m. - noon 	People age 65 years and older
1 p.m. - 5 p.m. 	People in high priority groups which include:
				- People ages 2 to 64 years with a chronic health condition
				- Children ages 6-23 months
				- Pregnant women
				- People age 65 and older
	Cost for the flu vaccine will be $15 payable by cash or check only. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted. The health department is unable to bill private insurance.  
The health department will continue scheduling flu immunization clinics as vaccine
supply is received. While a shortage of vaccine is not anticipated this year, the health department is reserving its supply received to date for people who are considered to be at high risk. The health department does expect to offer flu vaccination to all residents during the 2005-06 flu season. People are also encouraged to check with their health care provider for vaccine availability and clinics being held in the community.
 	Ways to reduce and prevent the spread of the flu include:
*	Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
*	Stay home from school or work when you are sick.
*	Cover you mouth and nose when you are coughing or sneezing.
*	If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper arm, not your
	hands.
*	Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap 	
	and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
*	Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
	Pneumonia vaccine is also available through the health department year-round at a cost of $20. People should check with their physician to determine if they should consider getting this immunization. For updated information on upcoming flu vaccination clinics call the Health Information Hotline at (573) 874-7355. 

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