In an effort to get more Pierce County residents vaccinated against the H1N1 (Swine Flu) influenza, the Department of Social and Health Services and the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department are hosting a free H1N1 vaccination clinic at local DSHS offices.
A free H1N1 vaccination clinic will be available to the public at these locations:
- Pierce South Community Services Office, 1301 East 72nd Street, Tacoma – Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Lakewood Community Services Office, 5712 Main Street SW, Suite 100, Lakewood – Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Pierce North Community Services Office, 1949 South State Street, Tacoma – Thursday, Feb. 18, 2010, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
“We have to maintain our vigilance in order to contain the spread of contagious diseases such as H1N1. It is easy to become complacent as the season gives way to more pleasant weather, but the reality is that we are still dealing with a flu virus that can have a deadly effect on populations at risk, especially pregnant women and children with weak or underdeveloped immune systems,” said Eddie Rodriquez, Regional Administrator of the DSHS Community Services Division.
Vaccination is the best protection against H1N1. Flu season is expected to continue through March. Swine Flu vaccination is available to anyone six months of age and older while supplies last.
Children under 10 need two doses of vaccine as one dose is less effective against the virus. Children under 10 years of age who are due for their second vaccinations are requested to bring their vaccination record.
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department offers Swine Flu prevention and other information, including upcoming clinics, on its web site. Go to www.tpchd.org and click on H1N1. People also can e-subscribe on the Web site to public health news to receive H1N1 updates.