[Press Release] : Columbia/Boone County Health Department to hold its first flu clinics of the season

[pr-l at news.gocolumbiamo.com]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Heather Baer - (573) 874-7632

Columbia/Boone County Health Department to hold its first flu clinics of the season

COLUMBIA, MO (October 10, 2006) -- The Columbia/Boone County Health Department (CBCHD) will hold two clinics in the upcoming weeks to begin vaccinating the community against the seasonal influenza virus. Because the vaccine is shipped in increments, the CBCHD will begin vaccinating parts of the population who are considered to be a highest risk for complications or hospitalization due to influenza. The CBCHD plans to hold additional clinics in November for the general public as vaccine supply continues to arrive (dates to be announced). 

High Risk Populations
Wednesday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Columbia/Boone County Health Department, 1005 W. Worley St.
Vaccine at this clinic will be available only for:
* Residents over the age of 50 years
* Women who will be pregnant during the flu season
* Adults and children over the age of 4 years old who have chronic health conditions including: heart disease, asthma or lung disease, diabetes, cancer and blood disorders
* Adults and children over the age of 4 years old who have muscle or nerve disorders ( i.e seizure disorders or severe cerebral palsy) that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems 
* Adults and children over the age of 4 years who have a weakened immune system 

Drive Thru & Beat the Flu!
Saturday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Columbia/Boone County Health Department, 1005 W. Worley St.
* Get your flu shot without even getting out of the car! The CBCHD will hold a “drive thru” style flu clinic on Saturday, Nov. 4, for all residents age 50 years and older. 

Important Flu Vaccine Information
Vaccine for children under the age of 4 years
Due to restrictions placed by the vaccine manufacturer in the ordering process, the CBCHD was NOT able to secure vaccine in doses appropriate for children under the age of 4 years old. Parents are encouraged to check with their pediatrician or other flu shot providers for vaccine availability. If the CBCHD is able to obtain a supply of vaccine suitable for children under the age of 4 years old, we will notify the public as soon as possible.

Prices for 2006-2007 flu season services
The CBCHD accepts Medicaid, Medicare, cash and check payments. We are unable to bill private insurance.
Flu shots: $20
Pneumonia shots: $25
Flu Mist (intranasal spray): $20 
*Note: FluMist is only approved for individuals between the ages of 5-49 years old, without underlying medical conditions or chronic illnesses.

DO NOT get the flu vaccine if any of the following apply:
* You have a serious allergic reaction to eggs.
* You have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the flu vaccine.
* You have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (a paralyzing illness).
* You have a fever or moderate to severe illness on the day you are getting the vaccine.

Good health habits are also an important way to help prevent the flu:
* Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
* Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
* Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
* Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

For more information about local flu clinics, call the CBCHD flu hotline at 573-874-7355 (choose option 9) and visit www.GoColumbiaMo.com to fill out and print a copy of the flu shot registration form. Additional information on influenza and flu prevention is also available at www.cdc.gov/flu. 

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