H1N1 “swine” flu vaccine shipments trickle in but supply remains in short
Due to a national delay in production, supply of H1N1 “swine” flu remains limited in King County.
To date, only 165,000 doses have arrived in the area, far fewer than planners had hoped for.
Most of the vaccine is being distributed directly to healthcare providers. Health officials encourage individuals interested in receiving the vaccine should contact their providers.
But an additional 15,000 doses have been sent to selected local pharmacies. And additional 7,000 doses are expected to reach these pharmacies next week. Some pharmacies require that appointments be made over the phone but some are providing vaccinations on a walk-in basis.
Health officials are still urging that the individuals considered at higher-risk of developing complications from H1N1 flu infections be given priority.
These are:
- Pregnant women
- People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age
- People between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old
- People between 25 through 64 years of age with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems
- Healthcare and emergency workers with direct patient contact
To learn more:
- Information about the participating pharmacies and what people should know about getting the vaccine before they go is posted at: www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness/pandemicflu/swineflu/pharmacies.aspx
- For more information on Public Health – Seattle & King County’s distribution strategy and where vaccine has been shipped to date, visit www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness/pandemicflu/swineflu/distribution.aspx
- For addition information about local H1N1 resources visit our H1N1 page.
Related posts:
- 15,000 doses of H1N1 vaccine arrive at pharmacies in Seattle and King County
- First shipment of H1N1 “swine” flu vaccine to arrive this week
- Online H1N1 “swine” flu resources from Public Health – Seattle & King County
- Video: H1N1 “swine” flu advice from Public Health – Seattle & King County’s Dr. Jeff Duchin
- King County man dies from H1N1 “swine” flu
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