HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS FLU VACCINE CLINIC FEB. 7

Flu Shots Now Available For People Age 4 and Over.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (January 31, 2005) The St. Mary’s County Health Department will hold a non-restricted flu vaccine clinic Monday, Feb. 7 from 12 noon until 6 pm at the health department in Leonardtown. Individuals who are age 4 and over are encouraged to get a flu shot now to lessen their chances of contracting the flu this season.

Cases of influenza have reached the ‘widespread’ designation in the state of Maryland in recent weeks, according to the St. Mary’s County Health Department. This indicates that the state is seeing an increase in influenza-like illnesses. Even with widespread activity, it is still advisable to get a vaccination.

"The live vaccine reaches its full effectiveness after approximately 2 weeks," said Nancy Luginbill, RN, director of health services. "With flu activity expected to peak this month or later, people who act now may ward off the illness completely, or at least reduce the severity of their illness if they do contract the flu."

The health department lifted all restrictions Monday, once officials determined that its remaining flu vaccine inventory would be most successfully distributed through an open clinic.

There are now 20 states (including Wash. D.C., Virginia and Maryland) that have lifted all restrictions.