Harford stocked up for flu season

Last year, the Harford County Health Department ordered about 5,500 flu vaccinations for county residents to get inoculated. Given fears surrounding a possible bird flu pandemic, Harford’s health agency has placed an order for 7,500 flu vaccines and has the ability to order more if needed, according Harford Health Officer Andrew Bernstein.

“It’s the sixth leading cause of death,” Bernstein said of the influenza virus. “Between 30,000 to 40,000 people die each year from what is essentially an illness that can be prevented.”

Bernstein urged all county residents who are considered “high risk” — young children, senior citizens and adults who suffer from asthma and similar respiratory disorders — to get vaccinated. Children younger than six months old cannot be vaccinated.

Five clinics will be offered across the county throughout November and early December.

In addition, the county will offer free, voluntary vaccines to all elementary school students — in both public and private schools — on Oct. 12 and 13. “It’s the first time we have done this,” Bernstein said.

“The health department is offering five different clinics across the county, which will give people ample opportunities to receive the vaccine. We had such great response last year, we are starting off with a drive-thru clinic at Ripken Stadium. Families can get their flu vaccinations in the convenience of their own vehicles,” said health department spokeswoman Tina Regester. Residents taking advantage of the drive-thru clinic are encouraged to wear short-sleeve or loose-fitting shirts so the upper arm can be easily accessed.

The FluMist nasal spray will also be available at all of the clinics except for the drive-thru clinic.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people should be vaccinated for the flu between October and November. The flu usually peaks between December and March in the U.S., according to the organization’s Web site.