Posted on: Saturday, November 27, 2004

Tripler flu shots still available for eligible military, families

By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser Health Writer

After completing its scheduled flu shot clinics, Tripler Army Medical Center still has enough vaccine to continue giving immunizations to high-risk military personnel and their family members.

Spokeswoman Margaret Tippy said the military medical center will offer shots to qualified military members and their families who meet federal guidelines set up in the wake of a nationwide flu vaccine shortage that began Oct. 5.

Tripler had received 15,000 doses of vaccine, but suspended flu shots for most after the October announcement by federal health officials.

Earlier this month, Tripler resumed flu shots for adults only on two clinic days, one last week and one this week. Now the clinics have been extended,and Tripler hopes to receive even more vaccine.

Tippy said the shots will be available at the Allergy and Immunization Clinic on Tripler's fourth floor. Hours are 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.

The Pediatric Clinic will continue to offer shots to those qualified during regular hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; and 8 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays. The Family Practice Clinic also offers the shots as does the clinic at Schofield Barracks.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies those at highest risk as: babies ages 6 months to 23 months, people 65 years and older, those who have chronic illnesses, women who will be pregnant during flu season, people who live in nursing homes or other care facilities, and those who have or who take care of babies.

Reach Robbie Dingeman at rdingeman@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-2429.