PUEBLO, COLO. -- The Pueblo City-County Health Department announced today it will open H1N1 flu vaccination clinics to all Pueblo County residents. Any person who does not have a medical contraindication to the H1N1 flu vaccine is welcome to attend.

“We are making great progress in controlling the spread of H1N1. Now is not the time to let your guard down. Take precautions -- cover your cough, stay home if you’re sick and get vaccinated,” stated Dr. Nevin-Woods, public health director of the Pueblo City-County Health Department. “We want to continue protecting Puebloans by opening vaccination clinics to everyone. Parents of children nine years old and younger who received a first dose and need their second dose are encouraged to call the Health Department to schedule and appointment in the clinic,” she added.

It should be at least 21 days since the first dose. To schedule an appointment with the clinic, call 719-583-4440.

Pueblo clinics will be held in December and are being scheduled for January 2010.

H1N1 flu vaccination clinics scheduled for the month of December:

• Saturday, Dec. 5 at East High School, 9 MacNeil Road,10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 12, Centennial High School, 2525 Mountview Dr., 10 .a.m to 3 p.m.

What the public needs to know before coming to H1N1 flu vaccination clinics:

• Plan for the likelihood that you will need to stand in line.
• Adults and children should wear loose-fitting clothing that allows for arms (legs for children) to be exposed briefly for the H1N1 flu shot.
• Eat before going to the clinic. Also bring water or snacks for children.
• Those arriving ill or showing signs of illness will not be vaccinated and will be asked to leave. Parents are asked to leave sick children home with adult supervision and attend with well children only. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
• People who have a severe, life threatening allergy to eggs, or to any other substance in the vaccine, should not get the H1N1 vaccine.

People who have a severe, life threatening allergy to eggs, or to any other substance in the vaccine, should not get the H1N1 vaccine. 

Several doctor’s offices have also received the H1N1 flu vaccine. Contact your health care provider to find out if the vaccine is available there. WIC clients can also receive the vaccine during their regular appointments. The vaccine is also available at the Walgreens Pharmacy located in Pueblo West for $18.

Additional information about H1N1 flu and vaccine can be obtained at www.pueblohealthdept.org and by calling the Public Health Flu Hotline, Tuesday -- Friday, 10 a.m. -- 2 p.m., 719-583-4440.