H1N1

Unfortunately, we at Elm Street Pediatrics still do not know the answer to the most-asked question this month, "when are you getting the H1N1 vaccine?". Unlike other vaccines, which we purchase and therefore can predict when we will receive them, the H1N1 vaccine was produced with government monies. Thus, the government decides who gets it and when... which is why some schools and public health departments have received it before us, the private offices.

We have been told we may be receiving the vaccine in early November. We hope this is the case, and promise to update this newsletter as soon as we do have it. At that time we will be scheduling clinics to administer the vaccine, first for high-risk patients and then according to supply and demand.

As many of you know, we have seen an increase in the amount of H1N1 influenza in our community this month. Please see previous posts for details regarding symptoms and treatment. As a result, our office staff, nurses, and physicians have seen a significant increase in number of phone calls received. We are doing our best to get back to you as soon as possible; however, please do not hesitate to call back if your call is not returned in a timely fashion.

Finally, there was in interesting post on NPR this past week regarding the spread of viruses. If any of you are interested, the link is: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=114075029.

As always, stay healthy and enjoy the fall colors. We would especially like to welcome back Dr Susan Nelson, who has returned to the office this week... it is wonderful to have her back. Thanks for reading!

- esp