Western New York counties prepare for flu season
BY ROB MONTANA HORNELL EVENING TRIBUNE

BATH - The outbreaks may be a couple months away but flu season is fast approaching.

That's why Steuben County health officials are working to make sure they'll be prepared.

Flu vaccines have been ordered and clinics will be announced once they arrive.

"We ordered the vaccine back in February or March," said Gail Wechsler of Steuben County Public Health & Nursing Services. "We have to order very early to get on the list."

Steuben County has ordered 2,500 doses and is waiting for them to arrive to begin scheduling flu shot clinics, she said.

"We certainly aren't the only source," Wechsler said. "The doctors in the area are good about ordering vaccine.

"We've polled the larger practices in Corning and those associated with St. James in Hornell, and they've all ordered large quantities of the vaccine," she added.

Many clinics will be done in conjunction with the Steuben County Office for the Aging, Wechsler said, which will target the older population in the county. People over 65, as well as children from 6 months to 5 years, are among the most susceptible to severe symptoms.

Other frequent targets of influenza include caregivers and people with chronic medical conditions. Wechsler also said women who are pregnant during any point of flu season should seek vaccination.

"They should start to look for shots," she said. "I'd suggest checking with their doctors periodically to see if the vaccine is available." The Livingston County

Department of Health has placed an order for 2,800 vaccines.

Joan Ellison, health department director, said health care providers in the county have agreed to share shots if they are needed in a specific area.

Livingston County also expects to announce clinics for November, but is waiting for the flu shots to come in before doing so.

While a smattering of cases can begin in October, the flu outbreak season won't arrive until mid-January. From then until mid- February is the peak of the season, Wechsler said.

"That is why we encourage people to start getting their flu shots in October," she said.

"Public clinics don't usually happen until November, and we recommend people get vaccines to cover them through the whole flu season."