Flu season poses few concerns for now

What a difference a year makes.

In November, 2009, people around the world were preparing for a pandemic outbreak of H1N1 influenza, also known as swine flu.

After an outbreak in Mexico, public health officials scrambled to develop a vaccine for the strain and get it to vulnerable individuals.

This year, said Dr. Jennifer Vines, Wahkiakum County health officer, there have been no major outbreaks of any flu strain; the H1N1 vaccine is included in the seasonal vaccine, and it is available for all who wish to be vaccinated.

"There's not a lot to report," she said Tuesday. "Flu is notoriously sporadic."

Health officials recommend that all people age six months and older be vaccinated.

Wahkiakum County Health and Human Services Director Judy Bright said the county and partners have held several clinics this fall. They've vaccinated 82 students in the Cathlamet schools; they've held public clinics in Cathlamet and Rosburg, and they've vaccinated people at senior citizen lunch programs.

People may schedule a vaccination appointment by calling the health department, she said. The cost is $25, free for people age 18 and under.