Get the shot

Niagara Wheatfield Tribune, January 14, 2010

Niagara Falls Memorial Center and Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA both have scheduled flu shot clinics this month.

•Fashion Outlets’ H1N1 Clinic, sponsored by Passport Health of WNY, will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, in the mall’s center court, 1900 Military Road.

Vaccine administration fee is $20, cash only; there is no insurance participation.

For ages 3 and up, injection only is offered. No mist or preservative-free vaccine is available. Canadians are welcome, but only U.S. funds will be accepted for payment. Call 204-0777 for more information

•Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center will conduct an H1N1 flu shot clinic for children and adults from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at 621 10th St., Niagara Falls. 

The clinic will dispense both H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccine by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 278-4413.

Public health officials are urging people to get vaccinated against H1N1. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is more flu around than normally seen at this time of year.

It takes about two weeks for the body to develop protection from the flu shot after vaccination.

People receiving flu shots at the Jan. 23 clinic should use the hospital’s 10th Street entrance or the walkway from the attached parking ramp, where free parking will be provided. Wear a short-sleeved shirt or top.

Patients with health insurance, including Medicare, should be prepared to present their insurance cards. No co-pay will be required. Individuals who do not have insurance will be charged $15 for H1N1 vaccine and $20 for a seasonal flu shot. 

People exhibiting cold-like symptoms, including an elevated temperature, should wait until the next clinic to get their flu shots.