Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: October 2, 2007

HEALTH Kicks Off Immunize for Life Adult Flu Program October 17

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) announces that the state-wide start date for adult flu shots will be Wednesday, October 17, 2007. 

The 2007/2008 flu season marks the first year of Immunize For Life—the adult flu program. Legislation was passed in July 2006 mandating HEALTH to purchase and distribute adult flu vaccine in Rhode Island.

“We are pleased to be kicking off this new, more efficient approach to adult influenza immunization,” said Director of Health, David R. Gifford, MD, MPH. “All adult providers and facilities enrolled in the program will receive a sufficient quantity of vaccine so that they can start their vaccination efforts on October 17”.

HEALTH has ordered a total of 258,000 doses of vaccine for the adult flu program. The first round of deliveries to adult providers and facilities will occur this week.

In addition to private providers, there are 519 public flu clinics scheduled in Rhode Island. For information on public clinics, call 1-800-942-7434 or visit www.health.ri.gov.