St. Charles County Department of Community
Health & The Environment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 31, 2001

CONTACTS:
Nancy Duncan, Director of Division of Public Health: 636-949-7407
Gil Copley, CH&E Director: 636-949-7477

Influenza Vaccine Delay Expected
Fewer Clinic Locations Due to Increased Costs

St. Charles County -The St. Charles County Division of Public Health announced today consumers can expect an increase in the cost of receiving influenza vaccines this fall, because manufacturers of the vaccine have nearly doubled the cost. Due to limited budgets, the Division of Public Health will not be able to offer public vaccination clinics this fall. When the vaccine becomes available, the public is urged to seek vaccination from their regular health care provider or at one of the many business locations where public influenza vaccination clinics are held.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that there should be an adequate supply of vaccines; however some vaccine shipments will be later in the season. High priority should be given to persons with compromised immune systems, those with chronic illnesses and those 65 years of age and older. These groups are at increased risk for complications and death from influenza. The vaccine should be given to these individuals in October and November or in September if they have a routine visit to their medical care provider and the vaccine is available. Caregivers of high-risk persons and health care providers are also high priority groups. Persons who are not at high risk for complications are urged to be immunized in November or later.

For additional information, contact the St. Charles County Division of Public Health at 636-949-7400, or visit the Department of Community Health and the Environment at www.scchealth.org for links to the latest information.

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