State officials say shortage of vaccine is critical
Health Dept. does not have flu shots
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

Due to a shortage of the influenza vaccine, about half the flu shots will be available with state health officials asking only those who are considered "at-risk" get one.

According to Linda Alcorn of the Ripley County Health Department, her department will not be providing any flu shots at this time. "We are on a waiting list, but do not expect to receive any vaccine," she noted last week. The pneumonia vaccine is available at the health department.

According to Becky Meyer, Communications Specialist for Margaret Mary Community Hospital, they too will not have flu shots for just anyone. Only individuals who are considered "at-risk" will be able to receive the vaccine. She further noted those who are considered at risk include:

· all children ages 6 months to 23 months

· adults 65 years and over

· those with underlying chronic medical conditions

· residents in long-term care facilities and nursing homes

· health care workers with direct patient contact

· and pregnant women.

Due to a vaccine shortage, MMCH will only be providing free flu shots to people who fall under the above guidelines. At this time none of the originally scheduled flu clinics have been canceled for 2004. The supply is extremely low due to Chiron Corporation, a usual supplier of the vaccine, having their license temporarily suspended.

Meyer noted that while MMCH gets their supply of the vaccine from Aventis Corporation, people are still asked to forego the flu shot until they fit into one of the above at-risk categories.

Questions about the getting the flu shot can be answered by calling MMCH's Flu Hotline at 812-933-5250.

The bottom line for now is only people who are considered "at-risk" will be able to receive a flu shot in Ripley County this season.

Nurse Alcorn noted that people should remember to help prevent the spread of all respiratory infections, including influenza, good respiratory hygiene is important. Simple procedures like washing your hands, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, help prevent spreading germs.