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Public Health Clinics Run Out Of H1N1 Vaccine

POSTED: 4:59 pm PST November 6, 2009
UPDATED: 5:03 pm PST November 6, 2009

San Diego County health officials confirmed Friday all seven of their public health centers are completely out of H1N1 injections, 10News reported.

Health officials said 10,000 doses of the vaccine were used in less than two weeks, and 10News learned there is no immediate plan to order more.

Clinics like the City Heights center have been inundated with people trying to get swine flu shots. However, with H1N1 shots all out some said they're worried the seasonal vaccine may be next.

Upon learning shots are no longer available, Sudanthi Layanaarachchi told 10News, "It's not good. I mean, I came to get the flu shot and if it's not available to get then it's not good."

The spray mist version is available, but it is not meant for everyone. The live version of the virus is only meant for people ages 2 to 49 that are not pregnant and are considered to be in perfect health. Anyone with asthma, certain allergies or a weak immune system is not able to take the vaccine.

Health officials said they would like to order more shots, but as of right now distributors have run out.

For the first time in years, health professionals are seeing a shortage in the seasonal flu vaccine.

Denise Lozares of Passport Health said, "It is a health concern. I worry about the people in high risk groups."

Passport Health is a local company that is contracted out to give vaccinations. Lozares said she ordered 5,000 seasonal flu shots in September, a supply that usually lasts until June. Lozares said that supply will likely run out within the next few days.

In the meantime, those waiting to be vaccinated said they are left with no choice but to keep waiting.

Barbara Nikkel was turned away from getting a vaccine, and she told 10News, "We will continue pursuing and keep trying to find it. It's just sort of like a needle in a haystack."

County health officials said they have no idea when they are going to receive their next shipment of swine flu vaccine. They are encouraging people to contact their regular health care provider.
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