Health District Prepares for Possible Third Wave of H1N1 (swine) Flu by Offering Free H1N1 Vaccine at Public Clinic February 6

The Spokane Regional Health District will offer the H1N1 vaccine free of charge at a public clinic Saturday, February 6, at Trent Elementary School in the Spokane Valley.  This clinic is open to everyone 6 months and older. For children who are 6 months through 9 years of age, two doses of the vaccine are recommended for the vaccine to be most effective. The clinic will provide the opportunity for children who have already had their first dose to get their second dose.

The Health District is concerned that some people think it's too late to vaccinate or that the potential for H1N1 influenza illness has gone away. "People are still getting sick from the H1N1 pandemic flu virus in Washington State, but in smaller numbers than earlier," said Dr. Joel McCullough, Health Officer for Spokane Regional Health District. "H1N1 flu started in April of last year so vaccinating now can still protect you from another potential outbreak of swine flu," McCullough added.

The February 6 clinic is a walk-in clinic, no appointment is necessary. Both the nasal spray and shot versions of the H1N1 vaccine will be on hand. Trent Elementary is located at 3303 North Pines Road. The clinic will be held in the auditorium from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Those who cannot make it to this clinic are encouraged to schedule a free H1N1 appointment with our Public Health Clinic by calling 324-1648. The clinic is located at 1101 West College Avenue. The vaccine is also available at many locations throughout Spokane County including many health care providers and pharmacies.