Texas County recently began receiving small shipments of the H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine, according to the health department.
The county’s first weekly shipment of 100 doses of the LAV nasal spray were made available for children age 2-4 years of age, caretakers of infants less than six month and direct contact healthcare workers. This week’s shipment contained 100 each of the LAV nasal spray, single dose syringes and multi-dose vials for a total of 300 doses, according to the Texas County Health Department.
Pregnant women are now being targeted in addition to the previous groups. These individuals should check with the health department or their primary care physician to schedule vaccinations.
Since the H1N1 virus was identified in April 2009, studies have been ongoing to evaluate what groups demonstrate highest rates of hospital admissions, secondary infections and severe complications related to H1N1 influenza. The Centers for Disease Control used this information to set priority groups for the temporary vaccine shortage occurring at beginning of new vaccine release.
Jackie Smith, health department administrator, reminds the public that more vaccine will soon be available.
“The first batches of H1N1 vaccine may be quickly used up, but people should remain patient,” Smith said. “We expect more doses to arrive each week and as they do, we will be able to vaccinate more members of our community against H1N1.”
The health department will provide updated information via local media about the number of doses arriving, which they are targeted for and what people should do to be vaccinated, Smith said.
The health department reminded the public to follow proven disease prevention methods such as good hand washing, not touching their face and keeping a distance from others who are sick. People should also stay home when sick to avoid spreading viruses to others.
For more information about H1N1 flu, symptoms or availability of the vaccine, contact the health department at 417-967-4131; or Missouri’s toll free hotline at 877-358-4141.