A nationwide shortage of this year's influenza vaccine has temporarily closed the vaccination program of the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

Because of the shortage, the Health Department's program here is restricted to persons at highest risk of severe complications from influenza: those "50 years of age or older, chronically ill or immunocompromised, [or] pregnant." Even this restricted program ran out of the vaccine on the first day (Nov. 7, 2000) and had to close until more can be obtained. Flu shots may still be available in San Francisco through other public programs or through private physicians. Or call the San Francisco Department of Public Health Flu Telephone Referral Line, 415-554-2681, for news on the Department's program.

Flu shots take about two weeks to become fully effective.

Persons with serious illness should check with their physician or clinic to confirm that they should receive the vaccine, and for information on where it is available.

Information about influenza in your area may be available at http://www.fluwatch.com

ISSN # 1052-4207

Copyright 2000 by John S. James. Permission granted for noncommercial reproduction, provided that our address and phone number are included if more than short quotations are used.

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