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September 9, 2010

Flu shots now available in Tri-County

The Times-Tribune

CORBIN — By Becky Manley Killian / Staff Writer

Flu shots are now available at all Tri-County health departments and local health officials are urging everyone to get a shot as soon as possible.

That same message was delivered by state health officials during a Tuesday media briefing by the Kentucky Department for Public Health.

Although state officials said forecasting the severity of flu season is difficult, the H1N1 strain will likely to be less of a problem this year and those who have had that flu may have some immunity to it.

State officials said the H1N1 virus will likely circulate this year along with the seasonal flu, though the pandemic strain continues to result in mostly mild to moderate flu symptoms.

“Regardless, as you know, seasonal flu can sometimes cause death,” Dr. Kraig Humbaugh, state epidemiologist said.

This year’s flu vaccine, available again in both injectable and nasal mist form, contains protection against both the seasonal and H1N1 flu, officials said.

Some providers will also have a high-dose vaccine available for seniors.

Though the 2009 pandemic flu strain impacted more young people, state officials said they hope seniors–the population more typically at risk from seasonal flu–get their flu shots this season.  

Department for Public Health Commissioner William Hacker said densely packed college campuses  can aid in the transmission of the flu, so students should get a flu shot to provide individual as well as “herd protection.”  

Five manufacturers are expected to provide at least 160 million doses of flu vaccine this year, and state officials said shortages aren’t expected.

Last fall, the federal government purchased and distributed the flu vaccine. This year’s distribution is being handled by the private sector, which means most people will likely have to pay for their flu vaccines.

It isn’t necessary to wait a full year between flu shots and state officials said shots administered now will continue to provide protection throughout the flu season. After receiving a shot, it takes 10 to 14 days for the body to produce antibodies that provide protection from the flu, officials said.

Health officials urge everyone at least 6 months old get vaccinated.  Health care providers can advise patients which vaccine form is best for them and children ages 6 months to 8 years may require two doses to get full protection.

Flu Shot Information

—Knox County Health Department has a walk-in vaccine clinic 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays. Medicare and Medicaid billed. Call 546-3486 for more information. The cost is $23

—Laurel County Health Department is offering flu shots from 8 to 10 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. through Friday of this week. Call the department at 864-5187 for future vaccine schedules. Humana, Medicare and Medicaid billed. The cost is $26.

—Whitley County Health Department is offering flu shots on Mondays and Wednesdays through Fridays. Best times for vaccines are from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Clients are encouraged to call ahead to see if there is a wait. Cost is $23 and the department plans to try to bill all insurance companies.  For more information call Williamsburg office at 549-3380 or Corbin office at 528-5613.

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