The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is encouraging the following groups to receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine:
• Pregnant women
• Household and caregiver contacts of children younger than 6 months of age (e.g. parents, siblings, and daycare providers)
• Health care and emergency medical services personnel
• Persons from 6 months through 24 years of age.
• Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have medical conditions associated with a higher risk of influenza complications.
After the demand for the vaccine for targeted groups has been met, providers and programs should begin to vaccinate everyone ages 25 through 64. Additionally, studies show that the risk of infection for individuals age 65 or older is less than the risk for younger age groups, so once vaccine demand among younger groups have been met programs and providers will offer the vaccine to older adults.
Like with the traditional flu you should look out for symptoms like a fever, cough, sore throat and fatigue. If you become sick it is important you stay home and avoid others unless seeking medical attention. And as always, common-sense measures, like covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and washing your hands often with soap and water, are the best defense against the spread of influenza (and many other germs).
To find more detailed information you should visit cdc.gov/h1n1flu or flu.gov. For additional information and to find a H1N1 vaccine provider in your area, please contact your local public health department, which can be found below.
Designated H1N1 Vaccine Area Providers
City of St. Louis Department of Health
1520 Market Street
St. Louis, MO 63178
(314) 657-1585
St. Louis County Department of Health
111 South Meramec
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-0600
Jefferson County Health Department
405 Main Street
Hillsboro, MO 63050
(636) 789-3372
Jefferson County Health Department Branch
1818 Lonedell Road
Arnold, MO 63010
(636) 282-1010
Ste. Genevieve County Health Department
115 Basler Drive
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
(573) 883-7411
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