There’S Still Time To Head Off Flu Vaccine Shortage Ends Just In Time For Flu Season

A nationwide shortage of flu vaccine has ended and the Spokane Regional Health District has opened its doors to anyone who wants a shot against the nasty winter malady.

This winter’s flu has yet to cough or wheeze its way into Spokane in any big way. But it’s coming, and health officials recommend getting a vaccination.

So far, there have been only three documented cases of flu in the Spokane area. One of those was from a person who got sick overseas and brought the bug home, said Dorothy MacEachern, epidemiologist for the Spokane Regional Health District.

“In mid-January through February is when we really see the most influenza activity in Spokane,” MacEachern said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most Northwest states are reporting only sporadic cases of the flu.

That the brunt of the flu season won’t hit for another two or three weeks is good news for the unvaccinated. The full protection of a flu shot kicks in after two weeks.

Influenza is a viral disease that jumps on the respiratory system quickly and with a grinchlike enthusiasm for making people feel miserable. It spreads easily through coughs and sneezes.

Fever, coughing, muscle aches, headaches, a sore throat and a general yucky feeling are the disease’s special flourishes.

“A person with influenza will not feel like moving around at all. It’s quite different from a cold,” said MacEachern. “It can last weeks.”

Until Dec. 15, the health district had limited its vaccinations to the elderly, health care workers and those at risk of dying from getting the flu. A nationwide shortage prompted the rationing, which the district urged on big retailers who give flu shots.

Several manufacturers of the vaccine had trouble producing one of three flu strains used in the shots. That problem has apparently been resolved. However, the district is still watching its stock closely.

Since receiving its supplies, the district’s clinics have been seeing about 100 people per day. During a normal holiday, the district would see about 50 people daily.

“I suspect when word gets out next week, people will be lining up for it,” MacEachern said.

This sidebar appeared with the story: WHERE AND WHEN Flu shots

The Spokane Regional Health District is giving flu vaccinations to anyone of any age. Vaccinations at the main clinic, 1101 W. College, are available Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The clinic is closed on Mondays.

The Valley clinic, at 9210 E. Valley Way, gives vaccinations on Mondays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to noon and then 1 to 4:30 p.m.

The cost of a vaccination is $10. Basic Medicare benefits cover the cost of the shot. However, some Medicare recipients, specifically those with managed care, may need to seek vaccinations at their primary care physician’s office or be prepared to pay $10.

The district’s flu hotline is 324-1643.