DPHHS asks Montanans to take advantage of H1N1 vaccine supply

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) officials are advising Montanans to take advantage of the ample H1N1 vaccine supply in the state.

Montanans who have not been immunized or previously diagnosed with H1N1 influenza should get vaccinated.

It was April of 2009 when the first cases of H1N1 appeared in the United States, and because health officials characterize influenza as unpredictable, they want to be prepared this spring against any resurgence of the virus.

“Vaccine against H1N1 influenza is abundantly available,” said DPHHS Director Anna Whiting Sorrell. “We urge Montanans to get vaccinated against this unpredictable disease.”

Every county and tribal health department in the state has a plentiful supply of the vaccine. Nearly 200,000 Montanans have received the H1N1 influenza vaccine since it became available in October 2009. However, tens of thousands of other Montanans have not been vaccinated.

“The H1N1 vaccine is safe and remains the best available protection against the H1N1 virus,” stated Whiting Sorrell. “The H1N1 virus continues to cause disease in other parts of the world, so it pays to be prepared.”

When the unanticipated influenza outbreak occurred in the U.S. during the spring of 2009, no vaccine was available to help control the spread of disease.

The state health department is particularly concerned about children who have not been vaccinated or have received one dose but not a second dose. Children under ten years of age require two shots to fully protect against H1N1 influenza. A second shot or intra-nasal vaccination 28 days or more after the initial shot will help ensure a child is adequately protected against H1N1 influenza.

In addition, DPHHS urges pregnant women and persons with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma or other conditions that reduce immunity to get vaccinated.

The 2009 H1N1 vaccine is available free of charge, although an administration fee might be required. Local and tribal health departments can provide the vaccine, as well as some pharmacies and health clinics. Montanans should contact their health care provider if they have questions. Information is also available at www.dphhs.mt.gov or local information at 1-877-701-8555.