Kids Need Flu Shot Booster

The number of Flu cases in the state grew at its slowest rate in a month last week. The State Hea...  More »

The number of Flu cases in the state grew at its slowest rate in a month last week. The State Health Department reports 184 new cases in the past week. Despite the slower growth, the season-to-date total is now 3,149 - nearly double the number reported in all of last year's flu season - and there are still several months left. The hard-hitting, early flu season serves as a reminder to get vaccinated. First District Health Unit Immunization Coordinator, Melissa Fettig, says it's important for children age 9 and under who received a first dose of vaccine to receive a booster dose after 30 days. Booster shots will be available tomorrow to children 6 months through 9 years of age, who were vaccinated on October 19th or 21st. She says it does not matter if the flu mist or injectible vaccine was given the first time, a second dose of either type is critical to providing the best immunity for children age 9 or younger. (Melissa Fettig, First District Health Unit) "We will have that same group that we've been doing, plus all these second shots, so it is kind of expanding, but we're just mostly focusing on getting those second doses in because without that second dose, they don't get that full immunity and we need them to get that second shot." First District will be hosting a clinic tomorrow from 9 am to 1 pm at the Minot Auditorium. In addition to booster shots, vaccine will also be available to people 6 months through 24 years of age, and parents and caregivers of children less than 6 months old. There are flu shots available tomorrow also in Lignite, Mohall, and Watford City. And on Friday, Williston State College will host a flu shot clinic from 2-7pm.  « Less