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For Release Tuesday,
12th November, 2002 |
CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR |
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PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
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LANTANA, FL-The Palm Beach County Health Department is opening its Lantana/Lake Worth Health Center Saturday, November 16, 2002 to persons interested in receiving their flu shot.
"We want to be sure all individuals are protected against the flu this season and that is why we've expanded our flu shot program this year," commented Savita Kumar, MD Health Department Epidemiologist. Dr. Kumar continued, "Last year the vaccine had many shipping delays and as a result supplies were limited. However, this year everyone, including private physicians, should have ample vaccine and I am recommending our residents take advantage of this simple measure to prevent the flu." The Saturday Clinic will be opened from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM for walk-ins and is located at 1250 Southwinds Drive in Lantana. Medicaid and other insurance carriers will be honored for payment or a donation of $14 is requested.
Each year over 20,000 people die as a result of contracting the flu and many more are hospitalized or forced to stay home from work or school. This year the Centers for Disease Control has recommended that persons over age 50, children 6 months to 18 years, pregnant woman and others who may have chronic medical conditions be vaccinated. Throughout the month of October the highest risk groups, like those over age 65 years with compromised immune systems, were contacted and should have already received their flu shot. If not, there is plenty of time throughout November and December.
This year's vaccine has been formulated to combat the current epidemic strains of influenza A/Moscow like, A/Caledonia like and B/Hong Kong like.
Numerous other sites are administering flu shots throughout Palm Beach County including senior communities, pharmacies, groceries and clinics operated by the Health Department. The Adult Immunization Coalition has set up an easy access phone line at 211 for persons to obtain times, locations and other information on the flu shot program.
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