Individuals 6 months through 64 years of age who have been identified by the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as being most at risk for complications from the H1N1 (swine flu) virus may receive an H1N1 injectable flu shot at a public clinic provided by the Atlantic County Division of Public Health on Sunday, December 13 from1 to 4 PMat the Hammonton High School, 566 Old Forks Road, Hammonton.
The clinic is free and open to any resident of the state who is eligible to receive the vaccine at this time. This includes: * pregnant women * individuals 6 months through 24 years of age * individuals who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months of age * health care and emergency medical services personnel * individuals 25 through 64 years of age who have certain chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems
With the cooperation of the Hammonton School District we are pleased to provide an H1N1 clinic that is more convenient to residents who live in the western part of Atlantic County, stated County Executive Dennis Levinson.
The countys previous H1N1 clinics have been held at the vacant Value City department store at the Shore Mall in Egg Harbor Township. That location was picked based upon its ability to accommodate large volumes of participants, its sizeable parking lots and its access by public transportation.
County health officials remind the public that children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (with proof of guardianship) to receive an H1N1 flu shot. A consent form must be completed for each individual who receives a shot.
Children 6 months through 9 years are required to receive two doses of vaccine, at a minimum of four weeks apart. It is not necessary, however, to receive the first and second doses from the same provider.
The injectable vaccine is NOT approved for use in people with life-threatening allergies to eggs or anyone who has experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction after a dose of seasonal flu vaccine. Those who are moderately or severely ill are advised to fully recover before getting the H1N1 vaccine.
Residents may also check for vaccine availability with their physicians, health care providers and area pharmacies.