Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: December 10, 2003
CONTACT: Helen Drew, (401) 623-0397

Flu Advisory

While influenza vaccine is in short supply nationally, the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) has been able to secure additional supplies of two vaccines for children.

HEALTH received confirmation that 4,300 doses of injectable influenza vaccine will come to Rhode Island with delivery expected by the end of the month. High-risk children who have not been vaccinated will be given first priority for this vaccine because they are at increased risk of developing complications from influenza. The following children are high-risk:

• Children between the ages of 6 and 23 months of age
• Children with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease
• Children with weakened immune system
• Children receiving long-term aspirin therapy

Parents with children in these categories should call their doctor. When the vaccine is available it will be delivered to the doctors for administration.

The Health Department has also secured 25,000 doses of FluMist vaccine for healthy children 5 through 18 years of age. The FluMist vaccine will also be delivered by the end of the month. FluMist is a nasal spray, which will be given through health care providers who take care of children

Rhode Island is one of a handful of states that pays for vaccines for all children birth through 18 years. The Department of Health purchases childhood vaccines with funding provided by the state funds, health insurers contributions, and designated Centers for Disease Control grant dollars.

Rhode Islanders should minimize their risk of getting influenza by taking the following steps:

• Wash hands often. Use warm water and soap.
• Stay away from sick people. Influenza is spread when infected people cough and sneeze. If you are sick, stay at home.
• Call your doctor early if flu-like symptoms develop. There are medications that can be given to minimize the effects of influenza.

The Department of Health will provide periodic public and health care provider updates. Families are asked not to call health care providers with questions about influenza vaccine. The increased call volume to provider offices is making it difficult for parents with sick children to get through to the office.