Friday, October 8, 2004
In response to a nationwide appeal by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for flu vaccine rationing, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health has announced plans to administer its current supply of vaccine to county residents, 65 years and older, the age group that accounted for more than 90 percent of all flu-related deaths last year and has been identified by the CDC as a priority for vaccination. The division will hold the first of four scheduled flu clinics on Wednesday, October 13, 2004.
The CDC's request for rationing followed the unexpected closure of a major flu-shot manufacturing plant operated by Chiron Corporation in Liverpool, England. The plant, which was closed by the British government due to concerns about sterility, had produced approximately 46 million doses of flu vaccine intended for distribution throughout the United States. As a result, the U.S. is now left with only half of its expected supply which is provided by Aventis Pasteur. Federal health officials are now urging healthy adults to forego flu shots so that there is enough vaccine to protect those most at risk.
The Atlantic County Division of Public Health is in a better position than some other counties, having already received half of its original order, placed last January through Aventis Pasteur. Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson said that he was pleased with the choice made by county health officials in its selection of a flu vaccine provider.
"Our policy is to begin preparations several months prior to flu season," he said. "This includes ordering vaccine. As a result, we have already received a partial order and are able to begin providing flu shots for our high-risk population."
Atlantic County health officials have scheduled four flu clinics between October 13 and November 1. The supply of vaccine will be evenly distributed among these clinics, with locations in Absecon, Egg Harbor Township, Hammonton and Ventnor. Shots will be available on a first come, first serve basis to those who meet the eligibility requirements.
Residents will be asked to present their Medicare card and to provide proof of county residency which may include a driver's license, voter registration card or utility bill. Without this documentation they will be unable to receive service.
Levinson noted that eligible residents may attend any of these clinics, regardless of the municipality in which they reside. The sites were picked to provide countywide accessibility for residents. If a resident fails to receive a shot at one site, he may attend another clinic. All efforts will be made to expedite the process and alleviate long waiting lines.
"We are faced with a difficult situation," stated Levinson, "and in order to ensure that the vaccine gets to those who need it most, we must strictly enforce these guidelines. Should more vaccine become available we will provide additional clinics."
Atlantic County Flu Clinics will be held as follows:
(Available for county residents, age 65 years and older,
who present a Medicare card and proof of county residency.)
Wednesday, October 13
1:00 - 3:00 PM
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Hall
591 New Jersey Avenue, Absecon
Tuesday, October 19
5:00 - 7:00 PM
Canale Training Center
5033 English Creek Avenue, Egg Harbor Township
Sunday, October 24
1:30 - 3:30 PM
St. Joseph's Church Hall
136 N. Third Street, Hammonton
Monday, November 1
10:00 AM - 12 Noon
St. James Memorial Hall
South Newport Avenue, Ventnor
County health officials are advising all other residents who may be at high risk for complications from the flu to consult their physician or health care provider. Residents may also visit the Web site www.findaflushot.com to locate community flu clinics sponsored by area pharmacies and supermarkets.
They are also reminding the public that vaccination is not the only means for preventing influenza. Universal respiratory precautions include frequent hand washing, covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using tissues to contain respiratory secretions and promptly disposing of them.
Influenza is primarily spread from person to person through the air. Virus particles are relased into the air through coughing and sneezing of persons who are ill with influenza. The "contagious" period varies, but generally begins the day before symptoms appear and extends for about one week after the first symptoms appeared. In New Jersey, influenza typically occurs any time between October and early April. However, the peak period of occurrence is January and February.
For more information about the county flu vaccine clinics, please contact the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 677-5720.