(SitNews) - The Alaska Division of Public Health has purchased approximately 5,500 doses of adult flu vaccine and distributed them to most public health centers around the state. The vaccine is targeted for adults over 65, those at higher risk for serious flu complications, and those without other access to the vaccine. Cost for the vaccine is $40.

“We decided to purchase some adult vaccine to help ensure that it’s available to Alaskans at higher risk of complications from the flu,” said Dr. Ward Hurlburt, director of the division.

Vaccine is now available at public health centers in Cordova, Homer, Kenai, Mat-Su, Seward, Bethel, Dillingham, Kodiak, Nome, Craig, Haines, Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Delta Junction, Fairbanks, Valdez, Tok and Kotzebue. Itinerant nurses will also have small supplies with them as they travel through the villages.

This year’s vaccine is formulated to protect against the three primary circulating strains of the flu, including H1N1.

Public health centers accept cash or check, Medicare part B for those eligible, and some accept credit cards. No one will be refused service due to inability to pay.Contact the public health center in your community to make an appointment.

Source of News: 

Alaska Department of Health & Social Services
www.hss.state.ak.us

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