Children receive H1N1 mist at local clinics

By Jarrod Lyman / Community Correspondent

(Updated: Thursday, November 19, 2009, 3:25 PM)

Coarsegold Elementary will hold a clinic from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 19.

A room generally used for furthering knowledge was used for furthering health Saturday, as the library at Oakhurst Elementary School was converted to a flu nasal mist clinic.

Representatives from the Madera County Health Department were on hand administering 104 free doses of H1N1 nasal mist.

The doses were administered via nasal mist. "There's less pain, children tend to cry less and are not as scared because there is no needle," said Yvonne Mercado, a public health registered nurse with Madera County.

The children were not the only ones worried, as many parents had concerns about H1N1 risks. "A lot of parents were scared of what they have heard. They were asking a lot of questions," Mercado.

Carol Barney, public health director for the county, said that the H1N1 vaccine was made in the same way as the regular seasonal vaccine and has no more side effects than seasonal flu vaccine.

Approved for people ages 3 to 49, the nasal mist is a popular alternative for many. However, those with asthma, diabetes or expectant mothers must go with the traditional shot.

For those who missed Saturday's clinic, Mercado said there will be future dates. "We will schedule future dates once we receive more doses."

All the children aged 10 and under who were on hand for Saturday's clinic will be back in three weeks to receive a second dose.

Coarsegold Elementary will hold a clinic tonight, Thursday, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. North Fork Elementary held a clinic yesterday.

The vaccine currently most available in Madera County is the flu mist nasal vaccine, according to Dr. Thomas E. Cole, Madera County Health Officer.

"We also have a very limited supply of the injectable preservative-free vaccine recommended for pregnant women, which has been distributed to physicians for their pregnant patients," Cole said.

"We understand the public's concern about vaccine availability and are working with the state, local providers and the schools to ensure that our most vulnerable populations receive vaccine," Cole said.

Younger children were prioritized based on guidelines established by the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention due to the limited amount of vaccine available and Madera County has had to further prioritize, because of the type of vaccine received.

As more vaccine becomes available, clinics will be expanded to older children and at-risk adults. All vaccinations are provided by the Public Health Department for free. Individuals interested in receiving the vaccine are also encouraged to check with their private medical providers, as vaccines have been received by a number of physicians in the community.