School-Located Flu Vaccinations
The vaccine, both injection and nasal spray, is free of charge to all children regardless of insurance status, and all uninsured adults. This vaccine is made available through funds from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (stimulus funds). A $10 donation is appreciated to cover administrative costs. Fully insured adults may also be vaccinated, but would pay a private pay charge.

The 2010-11 influenza vaccine will protect against three strains of flu virus:
•A/Perth /16/2009 (H3N2)-like antigen (different from last year's seasonal H3N2)
•B/Brisbane/60/2008-like antigen (the same seasonal B strain as last year)
•A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)-like antigen (the same strain used in the 2009 H1N1 pandemic vaccine).

Vaccinating those at high risk for serious complications from influenza continues to be of special concern. These include pregnant women, seniors, young children, and those with asthma, diabetes, or other chronic conditions.

Certain children should receive two doses of 2010-11 flu vaccine spaced at least four weeks apart - those age 6 months through 8 years:
•Who did not receive at least one dose of H1N1 2009 vaccine,
•Who have never received a seasonal flu vaccine before,
•Who were vaccinated for the first time with the 2009-10 seasonal vaccine, but received only one dose, or
•Whose previous season's vaccine history is unclear.

If a child falls into one of these categories, parents could time the doses so that one dose is given at the school-located clinic.

Registration for the clinic will be done using a secure web-based application. Stay tuned for further information!

Questions and concerns can be directed to Cheryl Malecha, Director of Health Services for New Prague Area Schools. Contact her at 952-758-1760 or by email at cmalecha@np.k12.mn.us.