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at higher risk for flu-related complications.
We encourage residents to receive the vaccine from their usual healthcare providers, if
possible. About 3,000 healthcare providers countywide have ordered the vaccine, the first
large shipments of which are expected to reach them for distribution over the next two
weeks.
By early November, the H1N1 vaccine should also be available at pharmacies throughout
the county.
Starting on Oct. 23, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will host free
H1N1 vaccination clinics targeted to county residents in the priority groups who do not
have a primary health care provider or cannot afford to purchase the vaccine from a
pharmacy. The vaccine will be available as either a nasal spray or injection. The schedule
and locations of the public clinics will be listed on the Public Health website two weeks
at a time, so check back frequently to find a convenient clinic.
The H1N1 vaccine has an excellent safety profile. It does not cause the flu. It is the best
tool we have to protect you and your loved ones, and to fight the spread of flu through
our community. The other effective ways to protect yourself and others are simple
healthy habits such as washing your hands, covering your cough, and staying home from
school or work if you get sick.
And though it is important to take steps to protect your health this flu season, I’d like to
caution you against purchasing unapproved or illegal “remedies” for H1N1 online. The
U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently issued a
products represented online as the antiviral medication Tamiflu were either counterfeit or
not approved for use in the United States, and could pose health risks for users.
As the FDA advises, use extreme care when purchasing any medication online. Antiviral
drugs should only be taken in consultation with and as prescribed by your doctor. As I’ve
shared with you before, most cases of H1N1 are mild to moderate in severity, and can be
treated by staying home, getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids and treating fever
and aches and pains with over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen,
or naproxen (but not aspirin). Ask your doctor if you should take an antiviral prescription
drug.
You should also seek medical attention for the flu if you experience any of the following
symptoms:
For children: