Media Release

CONTACT: Thomas Bertrand (401) 222-3283
FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: December 21, 2000

HEALTH Distributes 30,000 Supplemental Doses of Flu Vaccine
Open Clinics Planned for January 6 and 7

Providence—Today the RI Department of Health (HEALTH) started distributing 30,000 doses of adult flu vaccine to physicians, hospitals, long term care facilities and visiting nurse organizations. HEALTH ordered the extra supply in late November to assure enough vaccine to protect high-risk patients and others against influenza during the 2000-2001 winter season.

"There’s still plenty of time. Everyone who wants one should plan to get a flu shot," said Dr. Patricia A. Nolan, Director of the RI Department of Health. "We are getting the vaccine out to physicians’ offices and other health care organizations throughout Rhode Island as quickly as possible."

HEALTH recommends the vaccine for people age 50 and older and for health care workers, People age 65 and older and "high-risk" patients with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, are especially urged to get flu shots.

The Ocean State Adult Immunization Coalition, a consortium of health care organizations in Rhode Island, plans to hold open clinics for flu vaccine throughout the state during the weekend of January 6 and 7, 2001. More details will follow on times and locations.

For more information as it becomes available, call the Flu Hotline (1-800-555-7858) Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (non-holidays only) or visit HEALTH’s website at www.health.ri.gov.