Flu vaccine now made available to everyone

As of Monday, the Flathead City-County Health Department will open H1N1 (swine) flu vaccinations to anyone age six months and older.

The vaccine so far has been restricted to top-priority groups.

But due to increased supplies, anyone who wants an immunization now may get the H1N1 vaccine for free from the health department.

Seasonal flu shots also are available but at a cost of $25 for adults 19 and older or $15 for those six months to 18 years old. No child is denied a shot because of inability to pay.

Medicare and Medicaid cards may be used for payment.

People may receive both shots on the same day, according to Flathead County Health Officer Joe Russell.

“This is an ideal time to be vaccinated for protection against influenza during the holidays, as it takes up to two weeks before influenza immunizations are fully effective,” Russell said.

Generally, flu cases peak in January and February. Russell said that the department continues to receive reports of cases of H1N1 influenza even though it seems to have subsided in the community.

The health department has scheduled immunization clinics next week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday.

All the clinics take place at the health department building at 1035 First Ave. W. in Kalispell. For additional information, people may call the flu hot line 751-8188 or consult the Web site www.flatheadhealth.org.