About 2 weeks after vaccination with either type of vaccine, antibodies that provide protection against influenza virus infection develop in the body.  Amador County Public Health Department and the Amador County Unified School District are going one step further this year to encourage flu vaccination.  School based FluMist® clinics are being offered starting November 1, 2007 and continuing through November 9.  “Public Health was encouraged by the California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch to order FluMist® specifically for school based clinics,” says Lori Jagoda, Public Health Nurse and Immunization Coordinator.  “With the help of the school nurses, we are offering free FluMist® clinics at all Amador County Unified School District sites starting on November 1.  Because this is our first attempt to conduct clinics like this, only FluMist® will be offered this year.  Students who cannot receive FluMist® (those with asthma or other chronic conditions) but need a flu shot instead will be referred to their private healthcare provider or Public Health’s Children’s Immunization Clinics.  This is a joint effort and we are encouraging parents of eligible students to take advantage of this opportunity.”  Anyone who wants protection from the flu should get vaccinated. 

It is especially important that people with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, etc.), children aged 6 months to 5 years of age, pregnant women and people over 50 years of age, get their annual flu vaccine.  In addition, people in contact with these populations, such as health care workers, caregivers, child care providers and people living with high risk groups, should also get vaccinated.  October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but you can still get vaccinated in December and later.  Flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May. Flu vaccine is available at many convenient locations, including most private doctor’s office, community health centers, pharmacies, and your local health department.  Most health plans, including Medicare and Medi-cal, cover flu vaccine.  Those without health insurance should contact Amador County Public Health at 223-6407.For more information about the flu or to find your local health department, visit the California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch website at www.GetImmunizedCA.org.