Release Date: January 28, 2010
Contact: Christine Patmon, Metro Health Public Relations Manager, 207-8638
Two- Day Event Demonstrated Need and Demand for Novel H1N1 Flu Vaccinations
More than 5,400 people received free vaccinations;
Metro Health continues to offer service at main downtown and Goodwill locations
With an unusual flu season underway and a continuing pandemic, San Antonio’s public health team advises anyone who has not received the novel H1N1 flu vaccination to do so as soon as possible. Metro Health is offering free vaccinations at two of its clinic locations after vaccinating the largest crowd in recent history during a two-day event at the Alamodome on January 19 and 20.
“We are extremely pleased with last week’s turnout. It showed that there is still a demand for the vaccine and, more importantly, that people are heeding sound public health advice and getting the best protection available against this unpredictable virus,” said Dr. Bryan Alsip, assistant director of health. “This is an unusual flu season with almost none of the expected seasonal flu being reported and the novel H1N1 virus circulating at low levels. It’s hard to predict what the coming weeks or months will hold.”
Of the 5,426 people who were vaccinated at last week’s event, children 18 years and under and adults 25 – 49 years comprised the two largest groups, with 1,578 and 1,527 receiving the service, respectively. Metro Health also vaccinated 627 people age 65 years and over; 1,449 people 50 – 64; and 245 aged 19 - 24.
All age groups are encouraged to be vaccinated. Anyone seeking the vaccination at either of these Metro Health clinic locations should call first for schedule availability.
Main Immunization Clinic
345 W. Commerce
207-8894
Good Health! at Goodwill
727 NW Loop 410 (at Blanco)
525-0059
Children under the age of 10 years who have already received their first dose of the novel H1N1 vaccine and who are not expecting to receive the second at school or their health care provider should also bring any record indicating the first immunization.
The novel H1N1 flu vaccine is available at various sources throughout Bexar County. Individuals can check with their private health care provider, local pharmacy, or area clinic. Providers are encouraged to continue to offer the immunization to anyone who would want to reduce their likelihood of infection. Caregivers of young infants are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and, in turn, their babies.
Anyone looking for novel H1N1 flu vaccine availability at a pharmacy location can visit Metro Health’s website and enter a zip code in the flu locator.
