Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: December 13, 2005
CONTACT: Helen Drew 401-222-1016

Four Additional Flu Vaccine Clinics Scheduled
Rhode Islanders Encouraged To Seek Flu Vaccine Soon

David R. Gifford, MD, MPH, Director of Health announced today that Rhode Island has some additional flu vaccine clinics open to all Rhode Islanders seeking protection from the flu this season.

The Department of Health (HEALTH) has scheduled 4 additional clinics that will take place this week. Currently there is “No Flu Activity” reported in Rhode Island.

“This is still a good time to get your flu shot. The vaccine can take up to two weeks to create immunity, but flu season in Rhode Island usually peaks around February; so it is important for people to get vaccinated as soon as possible,” said Gifford. “We are very pleased to have vaccinated most of the Rhode Islanders who fall under the high priority groups, and we also had enough vaccine to cover all eligible children in the state,” he added.

The schedule for these additional flu clinics is as follows:

HEALTH will assess the amount of vaccine left in Rhode Island after Christmas, and may schedule one additional clinic at that point.

For updated information about flu clinics, call the Flu Clinic Hotline at 1-800-555-7858, Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:15 pm, or go to http://www.health.ri.gov/flu/fluclinics.php