Vaccine Supply Update
Aventis-Pasteur, Inc. still has over 5 million doses that may be purchased by private sector providers for $5 per dose and public sector providers for $3 per dose. Fluzone is available to ship immediately in any quantity by calling 1-800-VACCINE. Additional information is available on the National Immunization Program's website at: http://www.cdc.gov/nip/flu-vac-supply/flusources.htm.
The staff of the State Public Health Pharmacy, Georgia Department of Public Health is facilitating the exchange of vaccine between public health clinics in Georgia. If you are a private provider and need assistance in locating vaccine, please contact your local public health department or district health office for more information or referral to the state staff. For questions regarding antiviral administration, you may contact State Public Health Pharmacy staff at 404-657-2751.
Remember that it is NOT too late to vaccinate against influenza. Vaccination should continue into January and February 2001. Any unvaccinated person who wishes to be vaccinated may still be offered the flu shot even after influenza activity has been detected in a community, as long as vaccine is available. It takes approximately two weeks for a healthy person to develop peak immunity.
Offer the vaccines at every opportunity, and remember that administration of these vaccines is covered by Medicare Part B.
For information call:
Georgia Medical Care Foundation's Medicare Help Line
800-979-7217 or 404-982-7575
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