Health district prepares for H1N1 vaccine's arrival

   SANDPOINT — Idaho is one of only 27 states currently listing the H1N1 flu as a widespread concern, but the cavalry is on the way in the form of a vaccine, which will arrive locally in the coming weeks.

   While H1N1 has been confirmed in only a handful of cases statewide, Cynthia Taggart of the Panhandle Health District said those numbers do not accurately reflect the severity of the problem.

   “We have 17 cases confirmed, but I think we both know that that’s a fraction of what’s really out there,” Taggart said. “There’s probably thousands of cases out there right now.”

   The H1N1 test can cost as much as $350, so many flu sufferers are opting instead to take an Influenza A “quick test,” which is far less expensive. Because it is still too early for the seasonal flu, Taggart said doctors are working under the assumption that any positive Influenza A test is actually H1N1.

   “Our cases are mounting, they’re going up,” she said. “Absences in school are going up. Since seasonal flu isn’t here, we’re comfortable saying, “Yes, it is H1N1.’”

   To combat the virus, PHD will begin distributing an H1N1 vaccine in the coming weeks. The district has already received 3,600 doses of the vaccine, and Taggart expects more to come by week’s end.

   Schools will be the first to receive the vaccine, followed by local doctors and, later, through PHD public clinics. Children age 10 and older will receive one dose of the vaccine, but children younger than 10 will need two doses, given three to four weeks apart, for maximum protection.

   PHD plans to start vaccinations for the public in all five northern counties at the end of October, providing it receives an adequate amount of the vaccine. Dates and locations will be announced after the supply is confirmed.

   People who need the most protection from the H1N1 virus are a priority to receive the vaccine first. Those are pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than six months, people age six months through 24 years, people age 25 through 64 with chronic health problems and health care and emergency response workers.

   Some doctors and clinics will carry the vaccine. The vaccine is free, but private medical offices may charge for an office visit to cover fees associated with storing and dispensing the vaccine.

   Visit www.phd1.idaho. gov for a list of private providers offering the vaccine to the public.