H1N1 flu shot clinic here Monday

A clinic in Goldendale will be held Dec. 8 from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at the Grange Hall.

There are 500 doses of vaccine available for each clinic date. Additional vaccine will be available for those unable to make these dates.

There is no cost for the vaccine. Medical coupons will be accepted.

Any questions can be directed to the Klickitat County Health Department at 493-3532 or 773-4565.

The at-risk groups include the following:

Pregnant women;

People who live with or care for infants less than 6 months of age;

Children 6 months to 18 years of age;

Young adults age 19-24 years old;

People age 25-64 years who have a medical condition that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications; and

Health care workers.

Those not meeting the above listed risk groups will have an opportunity to receive the vaccine soon. It is anticipated that adequate vaccine will be available for all who want it, once those most at risk of complications have received it.

The H1N1 flu is still circulating. Like the common seasonal flu, H1N1 influenza is a virus that spreads from infected people to others through coughs and sneezes.

Common symptoms include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and body aches; and sometimes trouble breathing, diarrhea, and vomiting.

To reduce spread of illness, everyone is encouraged to wash their hands often with soap and water, cover coughs and sneezes, not touch the eyes, nose, or mouth, and stay away from people who are sick and to stay home when sick.

Medical care is not required if a person has mild flu-like symptoms. If symptoms are more severe, contact or visit a local health care provider.

For up-to-date information about H1N1 flu, visit the Klickitat County Health Department Web site at www.klickitatcounty.org/Health/.