Press Release

For immediate release January 21, 2010
Contact: John T. Althardt, (317) 221-2316

Health Department Returning to Area Schools and Holding Another Public H1N1 Clinic

Beginning February 2, the Marion County Health Department will return to local schools offering students age 9 and under the recommended second dose of H1N1 vaccine. Local health officials estimate more than 30,000 students are eligible for the second dose. The health department believes it will complete the second round of school-based clinics by February 18. Public, parochial, charter and private schools will be included in the clinic schedule.

Children who have not been immunized against H1N1, and have parents who want them vaccinated, can receive the vaccine.

Parents will be receiving consent forms from the school. The forms need to be filled out, signed and returned by the due date. Both nasal and injectable forms of the vaccine will be administered.

The health department has also announced another free H1N1 clinic for the general public. The clinic will be held January 30, from 9 a.m. - Noon, at the Lawrence North High School Fieldhouse, 7802 Hague Road. Individuals attending the Lawrence North clinic can download consent forms from www.mchd.com and fill them out to decrease time spent at the clinic.

Health officials are recommending that all Marion County residents get the H1N1 vaccine because another wave of the virus is likely.

"We are still in the midst of flu season and it is critical our residents take time now to get an H1N1 vaccination," said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Health Department.

Those with questions can contact the health department's 221-3366 Flu Helpline. The bi-lingual helpline is available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.