Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Health Department (ACHD) is offering the seasonal influenza vaccine to citizens starting September 1, 2009. "Receiving an influenza vaccine is a primary preventive measure against influenza infection." stated Jean Munden, Administrator of the ACHD. "In addition to getting a flu shot, staying home when ill, practicing proper cough etiquette and washing your hands are effective personal means to protect yourself and the community from a variety of illnesses."

Flu shots are being offered at the following locations. 

• Health Department's main Gainesville clinic - 224 SE 24th Street, phone number 352-334-7950. Walk-ins are accepted from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
• City of Alachua satellite clinic located - Hitchcock's shopping plaza, 15530 NW US Hwy 441, phone number 386-462-2542. While citizens will need an appointment and these can be made by calling 386-462-2542.

The cost for the vaccine is $25. If citizens have Medicare part B, there is no charge as long as they bring their Medicare B card and any supplemental insurance cards with them. Pediatric doses, (those for children 18 years of age and under) have not arrived but are anticipated to be available in early October. Citizens who normally receive their vaccines from providers other than the Health Department should contact them for vaccine availability.

The seasonal flu vaccine is effective against many circulating strains of flu but not against the novel strain of H1N1 Swine Flu. The vaccine that will provide protection against H1N1 Swine Flu is scheduled to be offered in late fall or early winter. The Alachua County Health Department will provide additional information on H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine as it becomes available.

For more information, visit http://www.alachuacountyhealth.com/ or contact Sherry Windham at 352-334-7950.