Public Health expands H1N1 vaccine eligibility

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The Jasper County Public Health has widened the eligibility for the H1N1 influenza virus vaccine, according to a press release issued Friday.

Those population groups added to those eligible for the H1N1 vaccine include people ages six months through 24 years and people ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

Pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than six months and health care and emergency medical service personnel continue to be eligible to receive the vaccination.

Jennifer Jordan, Jasper County Public Health director, said she was urging those eligible for the H1N1 vaccination to contact one of the Public Health’s community partners to be vaccinated.

Community partners who currently have H1N1 for the public include Baxter Health Services; Colfax Health Services; Dr. Ruth Spierenburg; Jasper County Public Health, by appointment only at 792-5086; Mercy Colfax Clinic; Monroe Family Health Center; Monroe Health Services; Newton Clinic (for current patients only); Prairie City Family Clinic; and Sully Family Health Center.

In addition, all pharmacies in Jasper County, with the exception of Wal-Mart now have the vaccine.

At first, children were particularly affected by H1N1, but now a growing number of adults are becoming ill.

For those adults, taking care of themselves is important not only to speed their own recovery, but also to stop the spread of illness to others.

This means staying home from work, school, travel, shopping, social events and public gatherings if you believe you have H1N1. The Iowa Department of Public Health and Jasper County Public Health recommend you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.

While most adults will recover from the H1N1 virus without complications, there are signs which indicate you should seek medical attention right away.

These include difficulty breathing; having purple or blue discoloration of the lips; vomiting and being unable to keep any liquids down; feeling dizzy when standing; or being unable to urinate.

A statewide toll-free hotline has been established for public questions about seasonal and H1N1 influenza at (800)447-1985. More information can also be found at www.idph.state.ia.us.

Locally, you can call Jasper County Public Health at 792-5086 with questions or concerns. Visit www.skiffmed.com and click on “H1N1 flu information and resources” to learn more.

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