Michelle Jason RN, public health nursing supervisor, administering the novel H1N1 nasal flu vaccine to employee Katie McIntosh. (Click picture for larger image.)

H1N1 nasal spray vaccine available at health dept. [October 09, 2009]  The Logan County Department of Public Health has received its initial shipment of the new novel H1N1 influenza vaccine in nasal spray form. This vaccine is licensed only for people ages 2 through 49 years without underlying medical conditions, including pregnancy. Currently the health department is offering this vaccine to health care and emergency services workers and caregivers and household contacts of children under 6 months of age who meet the above guidelines.

Those eligible may obtain this vaccine free of charge at the health department Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., without an appointment.

"Certain people are at higher risk of complications due to the novel H1N1 flu, and others work with populations at risk of complications, so we ask you to allow these people to receive their novel H1N1 flu vaccine first," said Mark Hilliard, administrator of the health department.

The CDC has said injectable vaccines, approved for all populations except those with contraindications, will begin being shipped next week.

To stay healthy and limit the spread of flu, remember the three "C's":

• CLEAN -- Wash your hands often.

• COVER -- Cover your cough and sneeze.

• CONTAIN -- Contain your germs. Stay home if you are sick.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Department of Public Health]