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H1N1 (Swine) Flu Information and Resources

The Washoe County Health District is dedicated to giving you the most up-to-date information on the H1N1 (swine) flu as that information becomes available. On this page, we will provide links to various resources at federal, state, and local levels so you can remain informed.

Updates specific to the H1N1 (swine) flu in Washoe County are formatted with the most recent update appearing at the top of the page. The information provided is current as of the time it is posted and is subject to change. Additional information can be found at

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #59
Friday, November 20, 2009 - 11:15 a.m.

H1N1 (Swine) Flu Status in Washoe County
Age groups (in years) For week of
November 1
through
November 7, 2009		 Cumulative number since April 29, 2009*
Estimated total number of confirmed and probable H1N1 cases 0-4 3 125
5-18 3 524
19-24 3 168
25-49 1 199
50-64 0 62
65+ 0 9
Unknown 0 0
TOTAL 10 1087
Estimated number of persons hospitalized with H1N1 flu** 0-4 0 13
5-18 0 16
19-24 0 5
25-49 0 18
50-64 0 9
65+ 0 5
Unknown 0 0
TOTAL 0 66
Estimated number of H1N1 flu-associated deaths 0-4 0 0
5-18 0 0
19-24 0 0
25-49 0 2
50-64 0 0
65+ 0 1
Unknown 0 0
TOTAL 0 3

* - Please note that the cumulative totals may include cases from previous weeks that were not identified as H1N1 at the time of the initial report week.

** - Please note that the estimated number of hospitalized persons does not necessarily indicate that these persons are still hospitalized, only that they were hospitalized at some point in conjunction with the confirmation of H1N1 flu.

This update includes the following information:

  • Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics
  • Schedule for additional upcoming vaccination clinics

STATUS OF WRISTBAND AVAILABILITY FOR TOMORROW’S FREE VACCINATION CLINIC

As of 11:15 a.m. today, there are no more wristbands available for tomorrow’s free novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic at the Washoe County Administrative Complex.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday. If you were unable to pick up a wristband and paperwork today, please check our Web site at www.washoecounty.us/flu or call 1.866.767.5038 for information about the next clinic schedule.

SCHEDULE FOR ADDITIONAL FREE NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

The Washoe County Health District expects to announce the schedule for additional free novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups the week of November 30, 2009.

No clinics will be held the week of November 22, 2009.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #58
Friday, November 20, 2009 - 10 a.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics
  • Schedule for additional upcoming vaccination clinics
  • Clarification of high-risk groups
  • Parking and building access reminders

STATUS OF WRISTBAND AVAILABILITY FOR TOMORROW’S FREE VACCINATION CLINIC

As of 9:30 a.m. today, there are approximately 350 wristbands left for tomorrow’s free novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic at the Washoe County Administrative Complex. There are a variety of time slots still available.

The line is moving quickly and wait time is minimal. Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated will continue to be distributed today on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts. Staff will continue distribution until 4 p.m. today or until wristbands run out, whichever comes first. If wristbands run out prior to 4 p.m., we will make that announcement as soon as possible.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday. You MUST pick them up today and MUST bring them with you in order to be vaccinated.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

SCHEDULE FOR ADDITIONAL FREE NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

The Washoe County Health District expects to announce the schedule for additional free novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups the week of November 30, 2009.

No clinics will be held the week of November 22, 2009.

CLARIFICATION OF HIGH-RISK GROUPS

Those age 65 years of age and older are considered to be in the high-risk group only if they

  • Work in a healthcare setting
  • Are a household contact of or caregiver for children younger than 6 months of age.

At this point, far fewer people in the 65+ age group have been getting sick with the H1N1 flu than those of younger ages. So people in the 65+ age group is not considered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be in the high-risk group, even if they have underlying, on-going health conditions, such as heart problems, lung problems, etc.

People in the 65+ age group will be offered vaccination against the novel H1N1 flu as soon as enough vaccine is available for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to recommend that clinics be opened up for the general public. We don’t yet know when this will be, though it is likely that the focus will continue to be on the high-risk groups for the near future. Check www.washoecounty.us/flu, watch local media reports or call 1.866.767.5038 for the most current information.

PARKING AND BUILDING ACCESS

Paperwork/wristband distribution and tomorrow’s vaccination clinic will take place at the Washoe County Administrative Complex 1001 East Ninth Street, Reno.

In response to community feedback, we’ve made the following changes for easier access. Please follow these directions for both paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination:

Disabled/handicapped/special needs access

Those who have difficulty walking or standing may enter at the first gate on Wells Avenue, about a block north of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells. You may park in a special reserved area next to Building B (link to map).

Enter the main entrance of the Health Department (Building B) and check in with the staff in the lobby that will help expedite the process.

All others

Please enter at the main gates to the Complex on East Ninth Street, about a block east of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells Avenue (link to map).

After parking your vehicle, you may enter through the doors at Building D (Assessor/Comptroller/Treasurer’s offices). Staff and/or signs will guide you to the locations for paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination clinics.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #57 (Update #57 in Spanish, PDF - 42.3 KB)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 - 4:15 p.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic for high-risk groups
  • High-risk group guidelines
  • Paperwork and wristband distribution
  • Parking and building access
  • Additional vaccination clinic information
  • Novel H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic FAQs (revised 11.4.09) – see update #49

ADDITIONAL NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

In following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Washoe County Health District has scheduled another novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic for those who are at greater risk of getting the novel H1N1 flu or of developing potentially serious complications if they do become ill with the virus. Following are clinic details:

Saturday, November 21, 2009 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

  • Anyone in a high-risk group can register for this clinic (see below for high-risk group guidelines).
  • 1,800 wristbands will be reserved for this clinic (see below for paperwork and wristband distribution).
  • Providers of daycare for infants less than six months old are being contacted by the Washoe county Health District via U.S. mail and will be provided with special registration instructions. Please call 775.328.2432 if you have not received a packet by Thursday, November 19 and/or need more information about this group.

HIGH-RISK GROUP GUIDELINES

In following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Washoe County Health District currently is targeting novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics to those who are at greater risk of getting the novel H1N1 flu or of developing potentially serious complications if they do become ill with the virus. These high-risk groups include the following:

  • Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel because infections among healthcare workers have been reported and this can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients. Also, increased absenteeism in this population could reduce healthcare system capacity
  • Pregnant women because they are at higher risk of complications and can potentially provide protection to infants who cannot be vaccinated
  • Household contacts, caregivers and daycare providers for children younger than 6 months of age because younger infants are at higher risk of influenza-related complications and cannot be vaccinated. Vaccination of those in close contact with infants younger than 6 months old might help protect infants by "cocooning" them from the virus
  • All people from 6 months through 24 years of age
    • Children from 6 months through 18 years of age because cases of 2009 H1N1 influenza have been seen in children who are in close contact with each other in school and day care settings, which increases the likelihood of disease spread, and
    • Young adults 19 through 24 years of age because many cases of 2009 H1N1 influenza have been seen in these healthy young adults and they often live, work, and study in close proximity, and they are a frequently mobile population; and
  • Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have health conditions (for example, asthma or diabetes) associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza.

Those age 65 years of age and older are considered to be at high-risk only if they

  • Work in a healthcare setting
  • Are a household contact of or caregiver for children younger than 6 months of age.

At this point, far fewer people in the 65+ age group have been getting sick with the H1N1 flu than those of younger ages. So people in this age group are not considered to be in the high-risk group, even if they have underlying, on-going health conditions, such as heart problems, lung problems, etc.

People in the 65+ age group are encouraged to get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu as soon as enough vaccine is available for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to recommend that clinics be opened up to the general public. We don’t yet know when this will be, though it is likely that the focus will continue to be on the high-risk groups for the near future. Check www.washoecounty.us/flu, watch local media reports, or call 1.866.767.5038 for the most current information.

PAPERWORK AND WRISTBAND DISTRIBUTION

Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated at Saturday’s clinic will be distributed on Friday, November 20, 2009 beginning at 7 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts. Staff will continue distribution until 4 p.m. or until wristbands run out, whichever comes first.

In an effort to accommodate individual schedules, we will make every effort to provide a wristband whose color corresponds to a vaccination time that will work for you.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday. You MUST pick them up on Friday and MUST bring them with you on Saturday in order to be vaccinated.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

PARKING AND BUILDING ACCESS

Paperwork/wristband distribution and all vaccination clinics will take place at the Washoe County Administrative Complex 1001 East Ninth Street, Reno.

In response to community feedback, we’ve made the following changes for easier access. Please follow these directions for both paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination:

Disabled/handicapped/special needs access

Those who have difficulty walking or standing may enter at the first gate on Wells Avenue, about a block north of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells. You may park in a special reserved area next to Building B (link to map).

Enter the main entrance of the Health Department (Building B) and check in with the staff in the lobby that will help expedite the process.

All others

Please enter at the main gates to the Complex on East Ninth Street, about a block east of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells Avenue (link to map).

After parking your vehicle, you may enter through the doors at Building D (Assessor/Comptroller/Treasurer’s offices). Staff and/or signs will guide you to the locations for paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination clinics.

ADDITIONAL VACCINATION CLINIC INFORMATION

It is very important that you return to get vaccinated at your designated time. People who reserve a space and then don’t show up take away an opportunity for vaccination from someone else.

Each participant attending a Washoe County Health District clinic is expected to behave appropriately by showing courtesy and respect to others. Inappropriate behavior (such as cutting in front of others already in line) or altercations of any kind will not be tolerated.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #55, 56
Friday, November 13, 2009 - 11:45 a.m., 4 p.m.

Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics
Saturday 11.14.09 Number of wristbands still available Tuesday 11.17.09 Number of wristbands still available
9:30 a.m. 0 Noon 38
1:30 p.m. 0 1 p.m. 167
2:30 p.m. 0 2 p.m. 180
3:30 p.m. 0 3 p.m. 164
4 p.m. 0
5 p.m. 0
Total 0 Total 549

The line is moving quickly and wait time is minimal. Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated will continue to be distributed today on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts or 5 p.m. today, whichever comes first.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday or Tuesday. You MUST pick them up today and MUST bring them with you in order to be vaccinated at your appointment time.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #54
Friday, November 13, 2009 - 10:30 a.m.

Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics

As of 10:30 a.m., there are approximately 800 wristbands left for tomorrow’s novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic and 700 wristbands left for the clinic to be held on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. There is a wide range of time slots still available for both days.

The line is moving quickly and wait time is minimal. Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated will continue to be distributed today on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday or Tuesday. You MUST pick them up today and MUST bring them with you in order to be vaccinated at your appointment time.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #53
Friday, November 13, 2009 - 8:30 a.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics
  • Clarification of high-risk groups
  • Parking and building access reminders

Status of wristband availability for upcoming vaccination clinics

As of 8 a.m. this morning, there are approximately 1,000 wristbands left for tomorrow’s novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic and 850 wristbands left for the clinic to be held on Tuesday, November 13, 2009. There is a wide range of time slots still available for both days.

The line is moving quickly and wait time is minimal. Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated will continue to be distributed today on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday or Tuesday. You MUST pick them up on Friday and MUST bring them with you in order to be vaccinated.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

Clarification of high-risk groups

Those age 65 years of age and older are considered to be in the high-risk group only if they

  • Work in a healthcare setting
  • Are a household contact of or caregiver for children younger than 6 months of age.

At this point, far fewer people in this age group have been getting sick with the H1N1 flu. So people in this age group is not considered to be in the high-risk group, even if they have underlying, on-going health conditions, such as heart problems, lung problems, etc.

People in this age group are encouraged to get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu as soon as enough vaccine is available for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to recommend that clinics be opened up for the general public. We don’t yet know when this will be, though it is likely that the focus will continue to be on the high-risk groups for the near future. Check www.washoecounty.us/flu, watch local media reports or call 1.866.767.5038 for the most current information.

Parking and building access

Paperwork/wristband distribution and all vaccination clinics will take place at the Washoe County Administrative Complex 1001 East Ninth Street, Reno.

In response to community feedback, we’ve made the following changes for easier access. Please follow these directions for both paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination:

Disabled/handicapped/special needs access

Those who have difficulty walking or standing may enter at the first gate on Wells Avenue, about a block north of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells. You may park in a special reserved area next to Building B (Link to map).

Enter the main entrance of the Health Department (Building B) and check in with the staff in the lobby that will help expedite the process.

All others

Please enter at the main gates to the Complex on East Ninth Street, about a block east of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells Avenue (Link to map).

After parking your vehicle, you may enter through the doors at Building D (Assessor/Comptroller/Treasurer’s offices). Staff and/or signs will guide you to the locations for paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination clinics.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #52
Thursday, November 12, 2009 - 5:30 p.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Number of Novel H1N1 (Swine) Flu Cases in Washoe County for the week of November 1 through 7, 2009 (located above)

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #51 (Update #51 in Spanish, PDF - 44.3 KB)
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 - 4:30 p.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups
  • Paperwork and wristband distribution
  • Parking and building access
  • Additional vaccination clinic information
  • H1N1 flu vaccine locator
  • Novel H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic FAQs (revised 11.4.09) – see update #49

ADDITIONAL NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

In following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Washoe County Health District has scheduled three additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for those who are at greater risk of getting the novel H1N1 flu or of developing potentially serious complications if they do become ill with the virus:

  • Clinic #1 - Saturday, November 14, 2009 - 8:30 to 11 a.m. - This time is reserved for only healthcare provider office workers (one of the high-risk groups because infections among healthcare workers have been reported and this can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients; also, increased absenteeism in this population could reduce healthcare system capacity).

    Members of this group are being contacted by the Washoe County Health District and will be provided with special registration instructions. Please call 775.328.2432 if you need more information.

    600 wristbands are being reserved for this healthcare provider office workers clinic. Wristbands that are not reserved by healthcare provider office staff will be made available to the general high-risk groups. Therefore, healthcare providers should not reserve wristbands that are unlikely to be used by their staff (see “Paperwork and Wristband Distribution” below).
  • Clinic #2 - Saturday, November 14, 2009 - 10:30 to 3:30 p.m. - Although anyone in a high-risk group (including healthcare provider office workers who were not able to register for Clinic #1) can register for this clinic, it is targeted primarily to those in the high-risk groups whose school and/or work schedules make it difficult to attend a weekday clinic.

    1,600 wristbands will be reserved for this clinic.
  • Clinic #3 - Tuesday, November 17, 2009 - 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. - Anyone in a high-risk group can register for this clinic.

    1,800 wristbands will be reserved for this clinic.

PAPERWORK AND WRISTBAND DISTRIBUTION

Forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated at Clinic #2 or #3 will be distributed on Friday, November 13, 2009 beginning at 7 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis while supply lasts.

Wristbands not reserved by healthcare office provider staff for Clinic #1 will be made available to the general high-risk groups at this time.

In an effort to accommodate individual schedules, we will make every effort to provide a wristband whose color corresponds to a vaccination time that will work for you.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday or Tuesday. You MUST pick them up on Friday and MUST bring them with you in order to be vaccinated.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Participants for all clinics will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

PARKING AND BUILDING ACCESS

Paperwork/wristband distribution and all vaccination clinics will take place at the Washoe County Administrative Complex 1001 East Ninth Street, Reno.

In response to community feedback, we’ve made the following changes for easier access. Please follow these directions for both paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination:

Disabled/handicapped/special needs access

Those who have difficulty walking or standing may enter at the first gate on Wells Avenue, about a block north of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells. You may park in a special reserved area next to Building B (Link to map).

Enter the main entrance of the Health Department (Building B) and check in with the staff in the lobby that will help expedite the process.

All others

Please enter at the main gates to the Complex on East Ninth Street, about a block east of the intersection of East Ninth Street and Wells Avenue (Link to map).

After parking your vehicle, you may enter through the doors at Building D (Assessor/Comptroller/Treasurer's offices). Staff and/or signs will guide you to the locations for paperwork/wristband distribution and vaccination clinics.

ADDITIONAL VACCINATION CLINIC INFORMATION

It is very important that you return to get vaccinated at your designated time. People who reserve a space and then don’t show up take away an opportunity for vaccination from someone else.

Each participant attending a Washoe County Health District clinic is expected to behave appropriately by showing courtesy and respect to others. Inappropriate behavior (such as cutting in front of others already in line) or altercations of any kind will not be tolerated.

H1N1 FLU VACCINE LOCATOR

In addition to the public immunization clinics that continue to be schedule by health departments in various parts of Nevada, private healthcare providers who have enrolled with the Nevada State Health Division to get novel H1N1 vaccine for the purpose of vaccinating their patients are beginning to receive their vaccine. A list of both public and private novel H1N1 flu vaccine providers can be accessed at http://flu.nv.gov/H1N1_FluVaccineLocator.htm.

As you review the list of private healthcare providers of the novel H1N1 vaccine, please keep the following in mind:

  • All private healthcare providers in Nevada are eligible to enroll in the program to get vaccine for their patients. However, not all Nevada healthcare providers have chosen to enroll.
  • Of those who have chosen to enroll, not all have received their vaccine, though vaccine will be shipped to them as more becomes available.
  • Of those who have chosen to enroll, some have decided to reserve their vaccine for only established patients. An established patient is someone who has seen the healthcare provider at least once prior to requesting a novel H1N1 flu vaccination.
  • As with the public clinics that are being held, private healthcare providers currently are vaccinating only those in the high-risk groups (Description of the high-risk groups).
  • Private healthcare providers who have not yet enrolled to get vaccine for their patients can do so by completing the online registration process at http://www.flu.nv.gov/HealthCare_ProviderEnrollment.htm.
  • The list of private healthcare providers who have ordered vaccine will be updated each Friday morning (except holidays).
  • If your private healthcare provider is not on this list, please
    • Check this list again for updates, as newly registered providers will continue to be added.
    • Click on the public clinic link to see if there is a public vaccination clinic scheduled in your area. New clinic dates and times will continue to be added for the foreseeable future.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #50 (Update #50 in Spanish, PDF - 55.8 KB)
Monday, November 9, 2009 - 5:30 p.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups
  • Update on October 29, 2009 high-risk novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic
  • Update on November 7, 2009 high-risk novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic
  • Number of Novel H1N1 (Swine) Flu Cases in Washoe County for the week of October 25 through 31, 2009

Additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups

The Washoe County Health District is in the process of finalizing dates and times for our next high-risk novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics. This information is expected to be posted at www.washoecounty.us/flu and the toll-free Nevada Help phone number at 1.866.767.5038 no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2009. Also check http://flu.nv.gov/H1N1_FluVaccineLocator.htm for information on other novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic locations and times.

Update on Thursday, October 29, 2009 high-risk novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic

The changes we made to this clinic allowed the registration process go more smoothly and more quickly. We’ve gotten much positive feedback from both clients and staff about the use of the streamlined forms and color-coded wristbands - people have been very happy not to have to wait for hours in line!

More specifically:

  • People were in line as early as 5 a.m. to obtain a wristband and paperwork.
  • Consolidated forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated were being distributed by 7 a.m., according to schedule.
  • Accommodation of individual preferences for specific vaccination times went very well.
  • By 9:15, all 1,200 wristbands allocated for the clinic had been distributed, with minimal individual waiting time.
  • By 1 p.m., we began giving vaccinations, according to schedule. The process went so smoothly that we ran about 20 minutes ahead for most of the afternoon, allowing us to vaccinate about 150 people an hour.

Additional observations:

  1. Various media outlets as well as clinic staff members received comments about why "illegal immigrants are being allowed to get vaccinated before legal citizens are." Our response has been two-fold:
    • Participants should be cautioned not to jump to conclusions about the citizenship status of an individual due to the person’s appearance and/or the language they speak.
    • Despite personal feelings some may have about the free provision of healthcare to illegal immigrants, it is important to realize that both seasonal and H1N1 flu are highly contagious and easily disregard ethnic backgrounds, literacy levels, financial barriers or citizenship status. Vaccinating as many people in the high-risk groups as soon as we can not only helps those who are vaccinated to stay well but also helps build a protective barrier around everyone else in the community who isn’t yet able to get vaccinated.
  2. Various media outlets as well as clinic staff members also received some concerns about people being allowed to take multiple wristbands and sets of paperwork to distribute to family members and friends. We made this change in response to feedback we had received in an effort to make it more convenient for participants (e.g., parents would not have to take their children out of school just to get their wristbands, it would make things easier for those with mobility issues, etc.). As long as the extra "admission kits" are being used by people in the high-risk groups (who will continue to be screened for high-risk group eligibility when they return to get vaccinated), we are meeting our current objective of getting as many people in the high-risk groups vaccinated as quickly as possible. Therefore, we are likely to continue this practice.
  3. Multiple media outlets reported that a "fight broke out" among people waiting in line. I was not able to find anyone working today’s event who witnessed the incident and, therefore, could not comment on it specifically. On a more general level, each participant attending a Washoe County Health District clinic is expected to behave appropriately by showing courtesy and respect to others. Altercations of any kind will not be tolerated.

Update on Saturday, November 7, 2009 high-risk novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics

In response to community and clinic staff feedback, changes for these clinics included scheduling participants for one of two time blocks as follows:

  • Clinic #1 - 8:30 to 11 a.m. - This time was reserved for only healthcare provider office workers, one of the high-risk groups. Members of this group were contacted by the Washoe County Health District and provided with special registration instructions. Six-hundred wristbands were distributed to this group.
  • Clinic #2 – 10:30 to 4 p.m. - Although anyone in a high-risk group (including healthcare provider office workers who were not able to register for Clinic #1) could register for this clinic, it was targeted primarily to those in the high-risk groups whose school and/or work schedules make it difficult to attend a weekday clinic.

More specifically:

  • In order to have adequate staffing to give vaccinations on Saturday, color-coded wristbands and paperwork were distributed on Friday. This worked very well.
  • People were in line as early as 4 a.m. on Friday to pick up wristbands and paperwork. Distribution began at 7 a.m., according to schedule.
  • By 10 a.m., all 1,600 wristbands allocated for the clinic had been distributed, with minimal individual waiting time.
  • Vaccinations for both Saturday clinics began on time. While there were some "no-shows" for each time slot, the most significant number occurred in the 8:30 time slot, when only 58 percent of the number expected showed up. This allowed vaccinations to run about 30 minutes ahead of schedule for most of the rest of the day. We vaccinated an average of 240 people an hour for a grand total of 1,911 vaccinations given during both Saturday clinics.

Additional observations:

  1. There was a miscommunication with Security as to when gates to the Washoe County Complex were to be unlocked. This lead to a slight delay for some participants.
  2. One gate was on an automatic timer and opened before the others. This lead to some initial confusion as to where participants should enter and encouraged a few people to jump a fence near gates which had not yet opened.

We will continue to evaluate the changes we've made and will make additional adjustments as the need arises with the goal of providing the best service possible to clinic participants. We will provide information about significant changes in the timeliest manner possible.

Washoe County H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update #49 (Update #49 in Spanish, PDF - 48.1 KB)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009 - 11:45 a.m.

This update includes the following information:

  • Additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics for high-risk groups
  • Changes for Saturday’s clinics for high-risk groups
  • Additional information for Saturday’s clinics
  • Novel H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic FAQs (revised 11.4.09)

ADDITIONAL NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

The Washoe County Health District has scheduled two additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics on Saturday, November 7, 2009 for those in high-risk groups.

Both clinics will take place at the Washoe County Health District (in the Washoe County Administrative Complex), 1001 East Ninth Street, Reno (corner of Wells Avenue and Ninth Street, just south of the Livestock Event Center) in Building B on the first floor.

CHANGES FOR SATURDAY’S CLINICS FOR HIGH-RISK GROUPS

In following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Saturday’s clinics are limited to those who are at greater risk of getting the novel H1N1 flu or of developing potentially serious complications if they do become ill with the virus.

In response to community feedback, we are scheduling participants for one of two time blocks as follows:

  • Clinic #1 - 8:30 to 11 a.m. - This time is reserved for only healthcare provider office workers (one of the high-risk groups because infections among healthcare workers have been reported and this can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients; also, increased absenteeism in this population could reduce healthcare system capacity).

    Members of this group are being contacted by the Washoe County Health District and will be provided with special registration instructions.
  • Clinic #2 – 10:30 to 4 p.m. - Although anyone in a high-risk group (including healthcare provider office workers who were not able to register for Clinic #1) can register for this clinic, it is targeted primarily to those in the high-risk groups whose school and/or work schedules make it difficult to attend a weekday clinic.
We will continue the use of color-coded wristbands, which will allow people to be vaccinated without having to wait in line for extended periods of time.

However, forms, color-coded wristbands and corresponding times for participants to return to get vaccinated at Saturday’s Clinic #2 will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on Friday, November 6, 2009 beginning at 7 a.m. (this will allow us to have enough staff available for both clinics on Saturday). We will be prepared to distribute 1,300 wristbands for Saturday’s Clinic #2. In an effort to accommodate individual Saturday schedules, we will make every effort to provide a wristband whose color corresponds to a vaccination time that will work for you.

Wristbands and forms will NOT be distributed on Saturday. You MUST pick them up on Friday for Saturday’s Clinic #2 and MUST bring them with you for admission to Saturday’s Clinic #2.

You do not need to pick up your wristband and paperwork in person as long as you are in a high-risk group. For example, a parent can pick up a wristband and paperwork for a child that they intend to bring back on Saturday to be vaccinated without bringing the child with them on Friday.

Those attending Clinic #2 will be asked to complete and sign a form certifying that they are in a high-risk group. Adults need to bring a photo ID to verify their age.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SATURDAY’S CLINICS

It is very important that you return to get vaccinated at your designated time. People who reserve a space and then don’t show up take away an opportunity for vaccination from someone else.

Each participant attending a Washoe County Health District clinic is expected to behave appropriately by showing courtesy and respect to others. Altercations of any kind will not be tolerated.

Although we continue to modify our system in an effort to reduce the amount of time participants spend in line, we recommend that you

  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Bring a portable chair (such as a lawn chair) if you have difficulty standing
  • Bring beverages, snacks and things to keep both children and adults occupied while you are waiting to get vaccinated.

NOVEL H1N1 FLU VACCINATION CLINIC FAQS

What forms of vaccine will be provided?
Only novel H1N1 flu vaccinations will be available at these clinics (vaccinations for seasonal flu will not be available). The novel H1N1 flu vaccine will be available in two forms:

  • Nasal spray – For only those who are healthy, non-pregnant and between the ages of 24 months through 49 years
  • Shot – For anyone age six months of age and older

How much will it cost to get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu?
There is no cost for either the nasal spray or shot form of novel H1N1 flu vaccine received at the Washoe County Health District (other non-taxpayer-supported/private clinics are allowed to charge an administration fee of up to $21.34 per vaccination).

 

Is the novel H1N1 flu vaccine safe?

  • The novel H1N1 flu vaccine is made in the same way as vaccine for seasonal flu.
  • Tests have shown that the novel H1N1 vaccine is safe and effective in reducing your chances of getting and transmitting the novel H1N1 virus.
  • The most common reaction to getting vaccinated is soreness at the site of the shot, for people vaccinated by injection.

How long does it take for the novel H1N1 flu vaccine to become effective?
It takes the vaccine about 10 to 14 days to become fully effective. That’s why it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible, based on risk groups.

Can I get the flu from being vaccinated?

  • You cannot get the flu from getting vaccinated.
  • If you were exposed to the novel H1N1 flu virus 24 hours or less prior to getting vaccinated or during the 10 to 14 day period immediately following vaccination, you could still get sick and/or pass along the illness to others.

Who needs to get a second dose of the novel H1N1 flu vaccine?

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children under 10 years of age who are being vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu receive a second dose of vaccine (a “booster”) at least 30 days after the first vaccination.
  • Boosters can be received at a future Washoe County Health District novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic or at other locations within the community when vaccine becomes available (see http://flu.nv.gov/H1N1_FluVaccineLocator.htm).

Why should I get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu?

  • Getting vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu is the best way to protect yourself from getting the virus and becoming sick.
  • Even if you are not worried about getting sick yourself, you can pass along the virus to others, some of whom could develop potentially life-threatening complications. Getting vaccinated will help you avoid transmitting the virus to others.

If I get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 flu, do I also need to be vaccinated against seasonal flu?
Yes. The novel H1N1 flu and seasonal flu are caused by different viruses, so you need to be vaccinated separately against each to increase your chances of staying well.

When will additional novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics be scheduled?
Additional clinics will be scheduled for a variety of dates and times and will be announced as shipments of vaccine are received. New Washoe County Health District clinic dates will be posted at www.washoecounty.us/flu and provided to area media outlets as soon as they are confirmed. You can also call 1.866.767.5038, a toll free, bilingual hotline which is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers novel H1N1 flu information specific to Washoe County. Finally, information on other novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic locations and times is available at http://flu.nv.gov/H1N1_FluVaccineLocator.htm.

When will novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinics be available for the general public?
We don’t know yet. It will depend on

  • Vaccine delivery/availability
  • Local demand from those in the high-risk groups
  • Direction from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Where can I get more information?

  • 1.866.767.5038 – Toll free, bilingual hotline which is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Hotline staff will have access to novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic information as Washoe County Health District clinic schedules are finalized.
  • www.washoecounty.us/flu. Novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic information will be posted on this Web site as Washoe County Health District clinic schedules are finalized.
  • www.flu.nv.gov. Novel H1N1 flu vaccination clinic information will be posted on this Web site as Washoe County Health District clinic schedules are finalized.
  • www.immunizenevada.org
  • www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
  • http://www.who.int/en/

Updates 32 - 35 (for the period of August 1 - August 31)

Updates from September

Looking for earlier H1N1 updates? Email jmdavis@washoecounty.us to request them.

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