News release from the Fort Wayne-Allen County Health Department:
Health department has flu vaccine for children and adults
(September 27, 2013) – The Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health is now offering flu vaccine for children and adults at its Immunization Clinic.
Both the injection and nasal spray variety is available while supplies last. Parents do need to make an appointment to have a child vaccinated and bring the shot record.
The injectable and nasal spray vaccine is free through the federal Vaccines for Children program to those clients on Medicaid or those without insurance or with insurance that does not cover vaccines. There is a $9 administration fee per vaccination. For all others, the injectable is available at a cost of $19 and the intranasal version for $30, including administration fee.
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. Anyone can become infected, but the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and people with chronic health conditions are more likely to become seriously ill or die from the flu or its complications.
The Department of Health has the traditional flu shot for children and adults. Along with the injectable vaccine, the Department of Health also has an intranasal spray for healthy people ages 2 through 49. The nasal spray, FluMist, is not suitable for pregnant women or people with underlying medical conditions, such as asthma.
The department also offers an intradermal vaccine for $24. This is a shot that is injected into the skin instead of the muscle using a much smaller needle than the regular flu shot.
The Immunization Clinic is at 4813 New Haven Ave. The clinic’s hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (260) 449-7514 to make an appointment. Children under age 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian (with appropriate consent).
Super Shot Inc. also has flu vaccine for children and teens. Call (260) 424-7468 for time and locations. Adults who want to get a flu vaccine can also check with their physician or visit their local pharmacy.
For more information on preventing the flu, visit www.fighttheflu.org.
Flu prevention measures
- Get an annual flu shot. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that everyone over the age of six months get vaccinated for influenza each year.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve, rather than your hands, if a tissue is not available.
- Stay home from work or school and limit contact with others if you are ill. Try to avoid other people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
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