The District 2 Public Health Office in Gainesville says that in administering the vaccine it will continue to target the priority groups identified as most at risk by the CDC. Those include including pregnant women, children and young adults from 6 months to 24 years of age, people age 25 to 64 years with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, any type of chronic respiratory conditions, heart disease and immuno- suppressive disorders, people who live with or care for children 6 months of age or younger, and health care and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient contact.
Both nasal mist vaccine and injectable (flu shot) vaccine are available at the health departments in each of the 13 counties. In addition, District 2 spokesman Dave Palmer says each county is "working as quickly as possible" to schedule school-based clinics in their communities, as recommended by the Department of Community Health.
As more vaccine is shipped and the priority group requirements are met, the targeted groups will be broadened.
"Some states where the amount of disease is low and the demand for vaccine is also low have worked with the CDC to expand the priority groups," said Dr. David Westfall, District 2 Health Director. "That is not yet the case in Georgia. The State Health Officer for Georgia is responsible for working with CDC to decide when to expand Priority Groups, and is the only person authorized to make that decision."
Dr. Westfall added "Until that time, we ask for everyone to remain patient as we get these most vulnerable groups vaccinated."
He said those eligible for the H1N1 vaccine should call their health care provider or local health department to see if vaccine is available.
The Department of Community Health, Division of Public Health has provided a list of providers across the state that will be administering the H1N1 vaccine. To view the list, go to www.health.state.ga.gov , click on the H1N1 provider locator and enter your zip code. When you find a provider nearby, you need to call the provider to check on availability of vaccine before going to the office.
The H1N1 vaccine is provided free of charge by Public Health, although administration fees may be charged to Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance. Private providers that registered to administer the vaccine are also beginning to receive limited quantities of the vaccine. Westfall says if you are in one of the priority groups, please check with your local health department or private provider for availability of the vaccine.
"Some states where the amount of disease is low and the demand for vaccine is also low have worked with the CDC to expand the priority groups," said Dr. David Westfall, District 2 Health Director. "That is not yet the case in Georgia.
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