H1N1 Swine Flu vaccination available in Walton County

The first supply of vaccinations for the H1N1 Swine Flu is available in Walton County and recommended for persons most at risk for complications, including:
•pregnant women,
•people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age,
•health care and emergency services personnel,
•persons between the ages of 6 months through 24 years of age, and
•people from ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk for H1N1 Swine Flu because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems
No appointment is necessary.  Vaccinations are offered at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis.  

The Walton County Health Department will conduct walk-in clinics at both of its locations: Defuniak Springs at 362 Hwy. 83 and in Santa Rosa Beach at 361 Greenway Trail on the following dates and time:
•Nov 12:  3 to 7 p.m.
•Nov 14:9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
•Nov 19: 3 to 7 p.m.     

Community clinics will also be offered at the Paxton Agricultural Center at 22036-2 US Hwy. 331 North and the Freeport Fire Station at 100 Washington Street from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 21.

The vaccination is offered on a voluntary basis, but Walton County Health Department officials urge residents who fall into at-risk categories to be vaccinated to limit their risk of exposure and transmission to others. The most effective precaution to fight influenza is getting vaccinated.  As additional supplies of vaccination are received, all residents should be vaccinated on a first come, first serve basis.  n the interest of public health, the Walton County Health Department is asking residents to be patient as H1N1 vaccine arrives over the next eight to twelve weeks.  
As vaccine supply increases, some of the Walton County H1N1 vaccine will be provided to local physicians and hospitals, who plan to participate in the H1N1 vaccination program.  
To prevent the spread of influenza, practice good hygiene regimes such as:
•Wash hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer
•Cough and sneeze into sleeve or tissue, then dispose of tissue in trash
•Keep those who are sick at home, except to receive medical care
Be sure to watch for symptoms of the flu illness, such as headache or fever and a severe cough, runny nose, or body aches. Phone your primary care physician immediately to determine if symptoms are serious enough to require prescription anti-viral medications. If symptoms worsen or go away then worsen, contact your physician or local hospital.  

If providing home care for someone who is ill,
•Do not share towels and bedding.  Laundry may be washed in a standard washing machine with warm water and detergent; bleach may be added but is not necessary.
•Do not share eating utensils or dishes. Soiled dishes and eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with hot water and soap.
•Disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched by the patient or are soiled with body fluids.  The bathroom should be cleaned daily, if possible. Household utility gloves should be worn during cleaning.
•Limit care giving to one person to reduce the chance of spreading the illness to the entire household.