Finally, the swine flu vaccine will be available in Mecklenburg County. But again, because the supply is so limited, there will not be enough for everyone who wants a dose.
Mecklenburg County Health Department administrators and officials of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced plans to begin distributing the vaccine to school students and adults who are considered most at risk. That would include pregnant women and adults who live with or care for young children. "We're hopeful that as supplies seem to be getting larger and consistent that we are going to be able to maintain the programs we start," said Dr. Wynn Mabry, the health department director. The department announced that it would start taking phone appointments for shots at two clinics. One will be at the health department office on Billingsley Road, the other at another location on Beatties Ford Road. The number to call to make an appointment if you are in a high-risk group is 704-432-5100. On Friday, CMS will send home permission slips for parents to sign if they want their children vaccinated in school. CMS hopes parents will first try to get the shots from their own family doctor. If not, CMS hopes to begin distributing the vaccine later this month, but no firm date has been set yet. "I can't say to you specifically the third week in November," said Barb Pellin, an associate superintendent with CMS. "It just depends on the vaccine's availability." For more information about the flu and protecting yourself and your family, visit www.meckhealth.org or call 311 in Mecklenburg County.
