Although Tropical Storm Ida didn’t cause hurricane winds it did cause the H1N1 vaccine shipments for the Southeastern United States to be delayed. Therefore, the vaccine supply that was intended for Lee County is behind schedule. Thus, additional H1N1 clinics are being cancelled due to limited supply.
“While this delay in shipments of H1N1 vaccine has led to the decision to cancel additional H1N1 clinics, we are anticipating additional shipments which should allow us to continue on with some of the vaccination clinics that are scheduled” said Judith A. Hartner, M.D., M.P.H., M.P.A., director of the Lee County Health Department.
– Cancelled Clinics:
Tuesday, Nov. 17 – Riverdale High School
Wednesday, Nov. 18 – Fort Myers High School & East Lee County High School

Remaining Clinics:
Tuesday, Nov. 17 – Island Coast High School
Thursday, Nov. 19 – Lehigh Senior High School & Estero High School
Saturday, Nov. 21 – South Ft. Myers High School

However, due to the limited H1N1 vaccine supply, only those in the priority groups will receive the vaccine. Unlike seasonal flu, individuals age 65 years and over are not typically a priority. For those individuals not apart of a priority group, they will be turned away.

The priority groups include:
Pregnant women
Children and young adults age 6 months through 24 years
People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months old
Health care workers and emergency medical services personnel
People age 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza

Due to the uncertainty of vaccine availability, always remember to verify the date and time before departing for any clinic site. To verify clinic information, log onto the Lee County Health Department website at www.LeeCHD.com or during normal business hours call the local flu hotline at (239) 461-6180.
Volunteers are still welcome for all clinic sites. To sign up to be a volunteer, call United Way 211 by dialing 2-1-1, download an application from www.LeeEOC.com (located under the Breaking News section) or pick one up at your local library. The application can be submitted directly online, or you can fax or mail it (information located on the application form).

Source: Lee County Department of Health