Vaccine arrives in SCC; seasonal variety scarce

Finally, the H1N1 flu vaccine has arrived at medical offices in Santa Cruz County. But it may be too late to prevent more cases of a flu that has already infected thousands of people in Arizona.

Now a shortage of vaccine for the seasonal (winter) flu has emerged, said Health Director Kevin Irvine. “Older people who really need the seasonal flu shot can’t get it.”

The winter flu season is around the corner and most medical providers, including Mariposa Community Health Center, are out of that vaccine, Irvine said.

“We had no indication we would face a shortage of seasonal vaccine.”

Mollen Clinic of Phoenix has scheduled a seasonal flu shot clinic at Food City in Nogales from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7.

People were signing up last week, said Food City employee Alex Gracia. He encouraged people who want a shot to call the pharmacy ahead of time at (520) 287-3984.

Mollen charges $30 for a flu shot and $45 for a pneumonia immunization, but will accept most insurance plans, according to the pharmacy.

Last week, the county received 500 doses of the H1N1 vaccine, Irvine said. Another 800 doses arrived this week and he has ordered 300 more doses for the 10 local clinics registered with the state.

The first doses went to health care workers and emergency responders, Irvine said. But there should be enough vaccine to immunize young people age 6 months to 24 years �“ the primary H1N1 victims �“ and pregnant women and those who care for children.

Nationally, H1N1 flu may have peaked in late October, concludes a study at Purdue University published on Oct. 15. Santa Cruz County has recorded 33 cases of H1N1 flu this year that were confirmed by a laboratory test, Irvine said.