Four new H1N1 influenza vaccination clinics have been scheduled by the Macomb County Health Department. Everyone over 6 months of age can receive the vaccine at these clinics. They are free of charge and will take place Dec. 14, 17, 19 and 21 at Bethesda Christian Church in Sterling Heights.
Bethesda Christian Church is located at 14000 Metropolitan Parkway, on the southeast corner of Schoenherr. The church is located next to Freedom Hill County Park; the entrance to the church is on Schoenherr.
Both the nasal spray and injectable versions of the vaccine will be offered. Thimerosol-free injectable vaccine will also be available while supplies last. Pregnant women cannot receive the nasal spray. The times of the clinics are as follows: Monday, Dec. 14, Thursday, Dec. 17 and Monday, Dec. 21: noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. As of Dec. 10, 30,000 doses are available for the health department to provide to the public. Because vaccine supplies are now abundant, there is no reason to arrive early at the clinics.
Children under 10 years old need two doses of vaccine to receive adequate immunity. The second doses need to be given at least 28 days after the first dose. The health department requests that children who received their first dose at an earlier clinic bring the card they received with them, so their records can be updated appropriately.
A call for robust H5N1 influenza preparedness and response