For immediate release
December 10, 2003

Contact: Vickie Elisa
               (404) 294-3700


DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
RUNS OUT OF FLU VACCINE

As of Tuesday, Dec. 9, the DeKalb County Board of Health has no more flu vaccine.

The agency has run out of the injectable vaccine for adults and does not expect to receive any more. However, limited supplies of the nasal spray and children's shots are still available at some facilities. Individuals seeking these should call their health center before going for service.

The nasal spray is recommended only for healthy people between ages 5 and 49 years old and costs more than the injectable or "shot" form.

"Fortunately, there are a number of measures everyone can take to reduce the chance of catching or spreading the flu," says Dr. Stuart Brown, medical director of Personal Health Services at the DeKalb County Board of Health.

These include:

  • Using a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing.
  • Disposing of used tissue immediately and washing your hands.
  • When washing your hands, using soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds and rinsing well.
  • Drying your hands with a disposal towel and using the
    towel to turn off the faucet.
  • Not sharing drinking glasses or eating utensils.
  • Staying home from work or school for five to seven days if you have flu-like symptoms.
People who are having trouble finding flu vaccine should check with private health care providers. For more information about the DeKalb County Board of Health's flu vaccination program call (404) 508-7880, or click here to find a health center near you.

 






 

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