Flu surfaces in Montana

The first two influenza cases in Montana have been confirmed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services,

Both cases are in Gallatin County. 

In a press release, Flathead City-County Health Department said the cases found in Montana underscore the importance of getting immunized against seasonal flu.

Adult Flathead residents 18 to 65 have an opportunity to receive flu shots for just $15 each at a special clinic from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Trade Center building at Flathead County Fairgrounds.

As payment for flu shots, the department accepts cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, Medicare and Medicaid, however no one will be denied a vaccination for inability to pay. Vouchers for free shots have been distributed to local agencies.

The lower cost was made possible by a donation of intradermal influenza vaccine by the pharmaceutical company Sanofi Pasteur. Intradermal vaccine is injected into the skin instead of the muscle with a much smaller needle while providing the same protection as regular vaccine.

Intradermal vaccine has no preservatives and is approved for adults 18 to 64. Traditional vaccine for other ages also will be available for these as well as other ages.