Mark Cooper, director of health for the Westport Weston Health District, today assured residents that despite reports of shortages of seasonal flu vaccine, the District still has seasonal flu vaccine available and strongly encourages the citizens of Westport and Weston to get immunized.
The vaccine for the regular seasonal flu and the novel H1N1 (Swine) flu are different. Both inoculations are needed for full protection, Cooper said.
“While the H1N1 flu virus has been the focus of attention since spring, it is important that we do not forget the risks posed by the seasonal flu,” he said.
Every year, on average 5 percent to 20 percent of the population gets the seasonal flu, Cooper said. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from complications, and about 36,000 die from flu related causes.
Individuals wanting a seasonal flu vaccination should get one even if the H1N1 vaccine is not yet ready for distribution.
Seasonal flu shots will be available on at the Westport Weston Health District, 180 Bayberry Lane, on the following dates and times: Oct. 29, 1 – 3 p.m.;
Nov. 2, 4 – 6:30 p.m., and Nov. 3, 4 – 6:30 p.m.
These clinics are open to anyone 3 years of age or older wishing to be vaccinated. There are no residency restrictions and no appointments are necessary, Cooper said.
He said all of the Health District’s vaccine is preservative-free.
