October 28, 2009 > Swine Flu vaccine is here Swine Flu vaccine is here By Meenu Gupta Swine Flu vaccine is available at no-cost to uninsured residents. On November 7 clinics will first attend those who are at highest risk of complications from exposure to the H1N1 virus. People on the priority list include pregnant women; persons who live with or provide care for infants less than six months, parents, siblings, and childcare providers; children aged six months to four years; children and adolescents aged five to 18 years who have chronic medical conditions that put them at higher risk for flu-related complications. "This preference is specifically for the clinic on the seventh," said Interim Public Information Officer for Alameda County Public Health Department, Vanessa Cordova. "We have no intention of turning anyone away, but at this point of time pregnant women and children are of priority, especially those who are not insured. We are confident that we can meet the needs of the priority groups." "Vaccine is not new, it is just that the strain is different from seasonal flu but the vaccine is manufactured the same way as seasonal flu. The side-effects are limited and are similar to those of seasonal flu. It is one dose for adults and two for children under the age of ten but older than six months, about three to six weeks apart." People should continue to practice healthy habits, such as washing your hands frequently and not touching your eyes. "We are pleased we have supply of injectable flu vaccines for pregnant women or children with breathing problems like asthma," said Cordova Some primary care providers have also received the H1N1 vaccine, so residents with health insurance are encouraged to contact their primary care provider for guidance on receiving the H1N1 vaccine. "Private providers have their own supplies that are being distributed from the state," said Cordova. As supply of the H1N1 vaccine increases, the Public Health Department will expand vaccination efforts to include other vulnerable populations identified by the Centers for Disease Control. Alameda County Public Health Department H1N1 Vaccination Clinic Schedule Effective through Saturday, November 7 Clinic Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or until supply depletes Fremont Teen Center, 39770 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont Hayward City Hall Rotunda, 777 B St., Hayward Saturday, November 14 Fremont Senior Center, 40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont Hayward City Hall Rotunda, 777 B St. Hayward Silliman Community Center, 6800 Mowry Ave., Newark Saturday, December 5 Fremont Teen Center, 39770 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont Matt Jimenez Community Center, 28200 Ruus Road, Hayward Saturday, December 12 Vallejo Mission Adobe Nursery, 36500 Niles Blvd., Fremont Hayward Fire Station #6, 1401 West Winton Ave., Hayward