H1N1 now available for young adults in Boone County
The Columbia/Boone County Department of Health and Human Services is now offering free H1N1 vaccines to all children and young adults who are six months to 24 years of age, according a news release from the department.
In the past, the H1N1 vaccine has only been offered to smaller priority groups such as pregnant women, young children and children with chronic medical conditions. According to the release, college students are encouraged to check at their student health center before coming to the health department clinic for the vaccine.
Department spokeswoman Geni Alexander said they are encouraging students to check with the SHC first because both they and the department received the vaccine. But she said if the vaccine was not available at the SHC, students could then come to the Boone County health clinic.
According to the SHC Web site, they have received the first shipment of H1N1 vaccines intended for those under 25 years old and students with chronic medical conditions. The Web site stated they are offering the vaccine to those who are on the wait list to receive it.
For more information about the H1N1 flu, visit the Center for Disease Control's Web site at www.cdc.gov.