Cape County health center sets clinics for flu shots

Southeast Missourian

The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center received its long-awaited supply of influenza vaccine Wednesday and will hold two flu shot clinics next week before opening its doors to walk-in clients.

The center gives flu shots to about 6,000 patients each year.

A national vaccine shortage delayed the arrival of flu shots last year and left health care officials with their fingers crossed this year, wondering exactly when supplies would arrive.

"All we knew is it should be here sometime in November," said Vicky McDowell, communicable disease coordinator at the county health center.

The health center receives its vaccine from Caligor, the company from which it gets all its supplies.

Last year's shortage occurred after the Food and Drug Administration ordered two of the nation's four flu vaccine makers to correct manufacturing problems, delaying production. One of those companies no longer produces the vaccine, which means the nation is relying on just three manufacturers.

And since the government can't control how private companies distribute vaccine shots, public health centers like the county clinic are not guaranteed to be first on the list. Both K-mart and Walgreens were able to host flu shot clinics last week through visiting nurses associations.

McDowell said the center is asking a $10 donation from those who do no have Medicaid or Medicare. Due to increased expenses, the cost is higher than the $5 asked in recent years but still lower than the $15 to $20 asked at private clinics.

A spokeswoman said Albertson's pharmacy plans to offer flu shots on a walk-in basis, but its vaccine supplies won't be available until Dec. 8.

Influenza kills about 20,000 people a year, mostly those over 65 or who suffer from chronic illnesses such as heart and lung disease, asthma and diabetes. Flu season typically runs from October to March, but in recent years has been delayed by warm weather.

Health officials say vaccinations can be effective when given as late as December.

abuchanan@semissourian.com

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