Media Release

CONTACT: Annemarie Beardsworth 401-222-3993 ext. 134
FOR: Immediate Release
DATE:October 20, 2000

Flu Vaccine Clinics to Start on November 1

Schedule available from Hotline or HEALTH Website 

Today, the Ocean State Adult Immunization Coalition, of which the Department of Health (HEALTH) is a lead agency, announces the schedule for nearly 300 flu vaccination clinics open to the public. The clinics will begin November 1.

"Adults need shots too." said Dr. Patricia A. Nolan, Director of the Department of Health. "A flu shot is an easy and effective way to protect your health this winter. For some it can mean the difference between a healthy season and a long stay in the hospital—or worse. That’s why the community worked so hard to schedule 40 extra clinics this year. As a result, everyone should have an opportunity to receive this vaccination."

It is important to get a flu shot every year. The viruses that cause flu change often; so the vaccine differs from year to year. People of any age can get sick, but for certain groups getting the flu can be life-threatening. It is even more important for these people to be vaccinated. Those at risk are:

• Residents of nursing homes and chronic care facilities
• Anyone with chronic heart problems, lung disease, diabetes or a weakened immune system
• Children on long-term aspirin therapy
• Pregnant women (after the first trimester)
• Health care personnel
• Household members of the elderly
• Anyone over the age of 50

Flu shots cost $10 - $12 at public clinics. Medicare part B covers the cost of a flu shot. To find the public clinic closest to you, call the toll-free flu hotline at 1-800-555-7858 beginning on October 23, 2000. The hotline operates Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. For a comprehensive listing of clinic schedules, visit the HEALTH website at www.health.ri.gov/flu/home.htm