1/12/2010 12:25:00 PM Coconino Health Department warns flu activity will likely increase soon National Influenza Vaccination Week is Jan 10–16
Submitted by Trish Lees Special to the Observer
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - Although flu activity has been relatively low in recent weeks, Coconino County Health Department (CCHD) officials report that influenza activity is still present in our communities and often increases significantly soon after the Christmas/New Year's holiday season.
"Flu activity usually peaks in the middle of winter and the season can continue into late spring. Flu is unpredictable and we don't know how wide-spread the flu will be for the remainder of the flu season," said Barbara Worgess, CCHD Director. "[This] week is National Influenza Vaccination Week. This serves as a good reminder to all to get vaccinated for H1N1 (swine) flu and seasonal flu, especially those who are at high risk of influenza complications."
Health officials say that right now is a window of opportunity for more people to get vaccinated for H1N1 (Swine) flu, to provide protection against a possible third wave of disease. Also, parents are now encouraged to seek the second dose of H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine for their children who are younger than 10 years old. The recommended interval between the first and second dose is at least 28 days.
H1N1 (swine) and seasonal flu vaccines are currently available to the general public at CCHD Clinics. Appointments are available now by calling the CCHD Flu Information Line at (928) 679-7300, toll-free at 1-877-679-7272.
CCHD Community H1N1 (swine) flu vaccination clinics are currently scheduled as follows:
• Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, (excluding holidays), 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Coconino County Health Department, 2625 N. King St., Flagstaff
• Thursday, Jan. 14, 4-7 p.m., Williams Elementary/ Middle School, 601 N. 7th St., Williams
• Saturday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Page High School, 809 South Navajo Drive, Page
• Wednesday, Jan. 20, (time to be determined), North Country HealthCare Grand Canyon Clinic, 1 Clinic Road, Grand Canyon
• Saturday, Jan. 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., NAU Skydome, 1705 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff
• Saturday, Feb. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Coconino High School, 2801 N. Izabel, Flagstaff.
Appointments are required and are available by calling the CCHD Flu Information Line.
Additional community clinics will be scheduled and updated clinic schedules will be posted on the CCHD website at www.coconino.az.gov/health. All clinics are based on vaccine availability and are subject to change. There is no out-of-pocket cost for the H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine. Bring your insurance card if you are covered.
In addition to CCHD Clinics, many private healthcare providers have received supplies of the H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine and are scheduling appointments for vaccinations.
Seasonal Flu Vaccinations
CCHD has received a limited supply of seasonal flu vaccine. Call the CCHD Flu Information Line and ask your scheduling representative about appointment availability and eligibility.
Stop the Spread
These simple actions can stop the spread of germs and help protect you and others from getting sick:
• Wash your hands frequently. This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs.
• Cover your mouth with your upper sleeve or with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Don't share eating utensils, cups, and straws.
• Stay home when you are sick. Stay home from work and keep sick children home from school.
• Get a flu shot.
For updated information regarding the availability of the seasonal and H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine call the CCHD Flu Information Line at (928) 679-7300 or toll-free at 1-877-679-7272 or visit www.coconino.az.gov/health.
