Health Department offers H1N1 clinic tips

ROCKFORD — The Winnebago County Health Department has issued tips to help residents at the department’s H1N1 public flu shot clinics.

The tips include:

* Prepare to expose the uppermost part of your arm, near the shoulder.

* Vaccinations given by the Health Department are free of charge. Medicare cards are not required.

* When bringing a child for a booster, bring the child’s vaccination card with the previous dosage information, if possible.

* People with allergies to eggs should not receive the vaccine.

* Allow at least 15 minutes for your visit.

The department has clinics scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Auburn High School, 5110 Auburn St., and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Heartland Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road. All forms of the H1N1 vaccine, including a limited supply of the nasal spray, is available at these sites.

Children 9 or younger who received their first dose before Nov. 19 may receive their second dose.

Appointments at Health Department H1N1 clinics must be made through an appointment line at 800-649-2381 which operates 24 hours a day. The vaccine is available to anyone age 6 months and older.

For information on H1N1, including additional clinic dates, visit www.wchd.org or call 815-720-4000. For seasonal flu shot information, call 815-720-4264.