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October 1, 2009

Galveston County and Cities – The Galveston County Health District (GCHD) annually encourages residents to get a flu shot.  This year GCHD is recommending doing the same and telling people the earlier they can get their seasonal flu shot the better. 

 H1N1, the virus also known as swine flu, has generated most of the headlines this flu season, but there will not be a vaccination for it available until a later date to be announced.  In the meantime, there is a vaccine available for seasonal flu at several locations in the county including the Health District.   

 “Do not wait.  Get your seasonal flu vaccination now,” said Dr. Mark Guidry, GCHD CEO, and Galveston County Health Authority.  “It is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others from seasonal flu.  Some people may be thinking, I’ll just wait for the H1N1 vaccine and get them at the same time.  You should not wait.”

Influenza is not just a winter inconvenience, but a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.  It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to complications, hospitalization, and even death.  The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot each year.

This year, with H1N1 vaccinations coming later people are being urged to get their seasonal flu shot as early as possible.  Health District officials point out that one vaccine is not a substitute for the other and people, particularly those in the high risk groups, should plan on getting both.   

 Anyone can receive a seasonal flu shot who wants to reduce the likelihood of becoming infected.  Due to the risk of serious consequences, high risk groups are strongly advised to receive flu shots every year.  High risk groups for seasonal flu include children aged 6 months to 18 years old; pregnant women; people 50 years of age and older; anyone with a chronic medical condition such as asthma or diabetes; and people who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities.  It is also recommended for health care workers and people who live with anyone in the high risk groups. 

 “Basically, you say the very young and the very old and those that care for them when it comes to seasonal flu,” Guidry said.  “And people who have severe or chronic health problems.”

The health district expects a supply of 3000 doses to be available to the public, which will be given while supplies last.  Flu shots are $20 each. Clinic staff will review Medicare cards for reimbursement at no cost to senior citizens.  Pneumonia vaccinations will also be available at a cost of $30.

Seasonal flu shot clinics will be conducted at the following locations on the dates and times listed: 

• Monday, October 5^th, 10 a.m. -12 p.m.:  Nessler Center, 2010 5^th Ave North, Texas City  

• Tuesday, October 6^th, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Johnson Community Center (Carbide Park), 4102 FM 519, La Marque 

• Wednesday, October 7^th, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Bacliff Community Center, 4503 11^th Street, Bacliff 

• Thursday, October 8^th, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Dickinson Community Center, 2714 Hwy 3, Dickinson 

• Friday, October 9^th, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Senior Expo at Mall of the Mainland 

In order to meet demand, seasonal flu vaccinations will also be given at GCHD Headquarters.  Vaccinations will be given in the La Marque Office at 1207 Oak Street, Monday, October 12, through Friday, October 16^th, 9 am to 12 pm, and 1 pm to 4 pm.    

Starting October 19^th, seasonal flu shots will still be available in GCHD immunization clinics located in Dickinson, Texas City and Galveston, as long as supplies last.  Clinic times and locations can be found at www.gchd.org/chn/IMM.htm.