It seems as though every time you turn on the television, pick up a paper or check your online news website of choice, Swine Flu is the likely topic. The media coverage has people engaged on the issue and strong feelings are developing as a result. In addition, most pharmacies and doctors offices are completely sold out of this years seasonal flu vaccine.
In this weeks edition, we will provide several links for in-depth information on the subject, as well as pricing information from some of the largest chain pharmacies, availability, and a few reminders about prevention.
Information Resources:
1. http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
2. http://www.flu.gov/
3. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/h1n1fluswineflu.html
Pricing:
All forms of the H1N1 flu vaccine are subsidized by the government, meaning the doctors offices, pharmacies, or public health offices receive the vaccine free of charge. Most do, however, charge some type of administration fee. This information follows.
CVS Minute Clinic-$15.00
Walgreens Pharmacies and Take Care Clinics-$18.00
Currently there is no vaccine available from Rite Aid, Target, or Walmart nor did anyone we talked to have information indicating they may have it in the future.
Availability:
This is likely the biggest issue with obtaining the H1N1 vaccine in its early stages. The CDC predicts large amounts of vaccine to be available in the coming months, but if you are in a high risk group and are looking to get your immunization earlier, you may have some work to do finding it. Currently the only way to find a real time availability of the vaccine is by calling individual pharmacies or doctors offices. In many states local (county) health departments are responsible for dispersing the vaccine, so they may also be good places to start.
Prevention:
With all of the attention the Swine Flu pandemic is getting, it is important to reiterate a few common steps to protect your health and the health of those around you.
1. Wash your hands! It so simple and so easy, but it only works if you do it.
2. Cover your mouth when you sneeze. Follow that up by washing your hands.
3. If you’re sick, stay home from work/school/social events. The virus is very small and could be spread by touching the same objects, or even breathing the same air. Be mindful of others and stay home, get some rest, and do your part to combat the spread of the flu.
Tags: h1n1 information, h1n1 media coverage, h1n1 prevention, h1n1 resources, h1n1 vaccine, h1n1 vaccine availability, h1n1 vaccine pricing