Normally I don’t bother to get a flu shot, but given that a) I’m asthmatic and therefore at increased risk of complications; b) my lungs have been getting crummier every year; and c) this year’s flu is supposed to be a doozy, I’m thinking I should go ahead and get one this year.
However, because of the current severe shortage of flu vaccine available in the U.S., the on-site vaccination program at my job has been cancelled, and my doctor’s office just informed me that they do not have, and do not expect to receive, any vaccine this season. So where the heck am I supposed to go? And isn’t there any formal way to make sure those most at risk for flu complications receive the vaccine over those who are merely super-cautious?
This is what I was going to suggest also. My understanding is from what I heard on NPR this morning was that they will administer it to infants, elderly over 65 and people with chronic health problems. I would think that asthma would definitely qualify as a “chronic health problem.”
Eva, I believe you’re in the Chicago area, right? I do know that Jewel Food Stores (and Osco Drugs) will be doing vaccinations - if you have one in your area, you may want to see if they are on board with that program and if you would be eligible. You also might want to check with Walgreen’s - Walgreens flu shot information may be obtained by calling 1-800-FLU-9950. Jewel-Osco flu shot information may be obtained by calling 1-800-783-0458. Also, have you tried calling any of the “doc-in-a-box” type of places?
Finally, at this site - http://www.ci.chi.il.us/Health/FAQ.html - third question down, is from the City (I assume you live in the city) - maybe they can help point you in the right direction.
Missy, thanks – you’re a genius (and yes, I’m in Chicago). I’ve never had to deal with the Health Dept., but they seem to be referring people to Jewel-Osco and Walgreen’s (and Advocate, but that’s private anyway, no? Aren’t they a Catholic organization? Not that they wouldn’t see me if I’m not Catholic, but I prefer my healthcare non-faith-based, thanks.) Walgreens’ line is busy – I’m sure it’s ringing off the hook. Osco near me is having a clinic on the 30th – I wonder how much of a loony bin that will be, and given what the demand is likely to be, whether they have any policy of allocating vaccine to people at risk first? Even last year, I tried 3 times to go to on-site clinics at work, but they ran out of vaccine before they got to me. After 3 rounds of bronchitis last year, the last thing I need is flu complications.
The answer to the first question is that it is contaminated with a bacteria called Serratia. I never heard of it but there is a little bit about it here:
http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/politics/9878890.htm?1c
The answer to the second question is most likely “yes”, it seems to me that if they released those contaminated lots many people who would otherwise be fine would definitely get sick with the bacteria. Not worth it IMHO. You definitely wouldn’t want the stuff knowingly injected into you.
Secretary Tommy Thompson intends to stave off panic, but the extra vaccine ordered by the government won’t be ready until January.
My wife and I, both high-risk, stood in a cold parking lot for about an hour. Somebody from the clinic passed out numbered slips for the 100 shots they had. Those who weren’t there to get a number didn’t get a shot. Once we got in out of the cold, it took another hour and a half. We were numbers 45 & 46.
