Due to an unprecedented national demand and issues within the statewide supply chain of seasonal flu vaccine, Thompson Health has not received all ordered flu vaccines. Therefore, Thompson is unable to hold the remainder of its scheduled flu clinics.
This applies to flu clinics that were previously going to be held at the Farmington Town Hall on October 7, October 12 and October 20; at the Gypsum Mills Community Center in Victor on October 10 and at the Thompson Health Urgent Care Open House on October 28.
“We strongly encourage community members to contact their primary care physicians and/or the county public health department about obtaining a vaccine, and we also recommend visiting our Web site or the Centers for Disease Control Web site for advice on how to prepare for the flu season,” said Thompson Health Senior Vice President of Medical Services, Dr. Carlos R. Ortiz.
Ortiz, who noted that seasonal flu typically peaks in January, added that should more vaccine become available, Thompson will then announce the arrangements to distribute it within the community.
In addition, Thompson recommends practicing effective handwashing habits:
- Wet your hands with warm, running water and lather vigorously for at least 15 to 20 seconds, scrubbing all surfaces – including the backs of your hands and your wrists – as well as under your fingernails. Rinse well.
- Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel, and use the towel to turn off the faucet.
- If using hand sanitizer, be sure it contains at least 60-percent alcohol.
Other simple precautions are also effective in stopping the spread of germs:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose of tissues in the wastebasket. If you are without a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve instead of your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Sanitize surfaces of common areas at home and at work.
- If you get sick, stay home and limit contact with others.