Media Release

11:10 a.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Health Department (ACHD) urges citizens to get immunized against influenza.  It is expected that over 30,000 Americans will die from influenza and influenza related illnesses this year. "Getting a flu shot is one of the most important measures an individual can take to avoid getting the flu.  There is no anticipated shortage of vaccine this year." stated Jean Munden, Administrator of the ACHD.  "Diligent hand washing and avoiding public exposure when ill are other actions citizens should exercise."

The Alachua County Health Department has announced that they will begin their Influenza (Flu) vaccine clinics beginning Thursday, October 2, 2008.  The vaccine will be available on a walk-in basis at the main health department site located at 224 SE 24th Street, Gainesville, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m.  The vaccine will also be available by appointment only in the Alachua Clinic 386-462-2542 and the High Springs Clinic 386-454-2421. The Health Department will also have a limited supply of the Flu Mist available for those individuals 2 years through 49 years who medically qualify for the vaccine. 

The cost for either the Flu shot or the Flu Mist will be $20 each.  For those with Medicare B, the Health Department will file for reimbursement as long as they receive a copy of their Medicare B card and any supplemental health insurance they may have and a photo ID.

To expedite your visit to the Health Department for a flu vaccine, we have added a Vaccine Administration Consent Form, the HIPPA information, as well as the Vaccine Information Statement on the inactivated flu vaccine to our web site.  You can reach the site by logging on to:  www.doh.state.fl.us/chdalachua/ or by Googling Alachua County Health Department.  For those who wish to receive the Flu Mist, we have forms in the office for you to read and complete upon your visit.

The health Department expects to receive their Vaccine for Children, [VFC] Influenza vaccine some time after the middle of the month of October.

The goal of the Alachua County Health Department is to promote, protect, maintain and improve the health and safety of all citizens and visitors.

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