Flu Update #7

December 18, 2009

 

The school-based H1N1 vaccination clinics will be completed as of Monday, December 21.  When they are finished, the Health and Human Services Department will have vaccinated more than 4,000 students.

 

One vaccine manufacturer, Sanofi Pasteur, has issued a non-safety related recall of some of its vaccine for children 6 months to 35 months of age. The Newton Health & Human Services Department has not used the recalled vaccine at any of it vaccination clinics.

 

An H1N1 vaccination clinic will be held on Wednesday, January 6, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Brown Middle School Cafeteria, 125 Meadowbrook Road.  This clinic is for children 6 months through age 18 accompanied by parents, their adult family members, and City of Newton employees.  Children under age 10 require two doses of vaccine.  They can receive their second dose at this clinic if it has been at least 14 days since the first dose.  Please download and complete a Vaccine Administration Record at www.newtonma.gov/flu and bring it with you. One form is needed for each person being vaccinated.

 

It is strongly recommended that everyone receive the H1N1 vaccine even if you think you may have already had this type of flu.  The vaccine is now available for people of all ages. See www.newtonma.gov/flu for a listing of all clinics.

 

Influenza-like illness in the Newton Public Schools is very low. As of Dec. 14, less than 1 percent of students across the district were reported absent due to influenza-like illness. While the illness level remains low at this time, it is unknown what will happen in the months ahead. Typically, January through April is a time when influenza is active in New England.

 

The school nurses will continue to monitor absences after the December break so please continue to report the reason for your child's absence to their school.

 

Have a safe and healthy winter break.