Southern Nevada Health District to Offer Flu Shots

Southern Nevada Health District to offer flu shots, Oct. 30

Healthy people encouraged to wait until after the initial rush

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 25, 2006

LAS VEGAS – October 25, 2006 – Flu season is nearly here! The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) today announced that it will offer flu shots to the general public beginning Monday, Oct. 30.

There are no anticipated vaccine shortages this season, though new distribution methods stagger delivery over a four-week period. Because of this new process, healthy people are encouraged to allow those in the high-risk category to receive their shots first, which will also reduce the long lines and wait time during the first few weeks that vaccines are offered.

High-risk individuals include people age 50 and over, pregnant women, individuals between six months old and 49 with certain medical conditions, health care workers, and household contacts of individuals who are at high risk. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently revised its recommendations regarding children and now encourages flu vaccinations for children between the ages of six months and 59 months.

Flu vaccinations will be given Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the following public health centers:

Ravenholt Public Health Center, 625 Shadow Lane, Las Vegas
East Las Vegas Public Health Center, 560 N. Nellis Blvd., Suite E12, Las Vegas
Henderson Public Health Center, 520 E. Lake Mead Parkway, Henderson
North Las Vegas Public Health Center, 1820 E. Lake Mead Blvd., Suite F, North Las Vegas

“With ample vaccine supplies expected this year, we encourage everyone to get their flu shot,” said Dr. Donald Kwalick, chief health officer. “Because there are slight variations in the virus, last year’s shot will not protect against this year’s strain, so it is advised that everyone receives an annual flu vaccination as the best way to reduce the chance of getting the flu.”

While the health district recommends that people start to get their flu shots early in the season, it is still effective if they wait until December or January. Flu season in Southern Nevada generally peaks in January and February.

The district will offer both the standard flu shot and the inhaled FluMist vaccine, which is approved for healthy people between five and 49 years of age, and is not recommended for pregnant women.

Additional flu shot clinics for the general public will be held at the following locations:

Searchlight Nov. 6, 9 a.m-1 p.m.
Mt. Crest Park Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
East Las Vegas Community Center Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Indian Springs Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Doolittle Senior Center Nov. 16, 9 a.m.-Noon
Laughlin Senior Center Nov. 17, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Mesquite Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Currently, there is no flu activity in Clark County, and people have ample time to receive a vaccination. Those wishing to avoid the initial rush can be assured flu vaccine is in sufficient supply, and can delay their visit until the middle of November.

Methods of payment for flu shots include Medicare Part B, Medicare Railroad Part B, Medicaid, Pacific Care, Secure Horizons and Senior Dimensions. Patients must present their insurance or Medicaid card at the time of service. For those not covered or without proof of insurance, the cost for either type of flu vaccination is $30.

For the 2005-06 flu season, the health district distributed more than 30,000 flu shots. To further prevent the spread of the virus: avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home if you’re sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

For more information, contact the health district’s immunization project at (702) 759-0850 or access the health district website, www.SouthernNevadaHealthDistrict.org.

Visit the Media Contacts webpage for media related inquiries.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.