Frequently Asked Questions about Community Based H1N1 Clinics

Why is Columbus Public Health offering community based H1N1 vaccinations?

Children with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women are at highest risk for suffering severe complications from H1N1 flu and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended they be vaccinated. Coming to community locations is the easiest way to reach large groups.  

Is the H1N1 Vaccine mandatory?

The H1N1 vaccine is not mandatory, but is highly recommended by Columbus Public Health, the Franklin County Board of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

How much does the H1N1 Vaccine Cost?

The H1N1 Vaccine is free at any public health clinic, however healthcare providers and retail pharmacies may charge up to $15 for an administration fee.  

What is the difference between the flu shot and the nasal mist?

The H1N1 "flu shot" — is an inactivated vaccine (containing killed H1N1 virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The H1N1flu shot is approved for use in people 6 months of age and older, including healthy people, people with chronic medical conditions and pregnant women.

The H1N1 nasal mist flu vaccine — is a vaccine made with live (weakened viruses) that do not cause the flu – sometimes called LAIV for "live attenuated influenza vaccine". The nasal mist is sprayed into the nose and is approved for use in healthy people 2 years to 49 years of age. It cannot be given to those who have chronic medical conditions or who are pregnant.
The same manufacturers who produce seasonal flu shots and seasonal flu mist are producing the H1N1 flu shots. It is being manufactured the same way.  

My child has already been sick with flu-like symptoms, should they still get vaccinated?

Yes. It is recommended that all children be vaccinated against H1N1 even if they have already been sick. Only individuals with confirmed H1N1 by PCR lab test would be protected from H1N1 and thus vaccine is not recommended.  

How long should I wait before my child who is 9-years-of-age or younger receives their second dose of H1N1 vaccine to be fully protected?

Your child must wait at least four weeks before receiving their second dose of the H1N1 Vaccine.  

What if the parent or guardian is unable to come to the clinic with the child?

Parents or guardians must come to the clinic with their child. We ask parents to bring their children to the clinic nearest them; however, parents can take their child to any clinic in the county if necessary.  

Which healthcare and emergency medical services personnel are in the initial priority group for H1N1 influenza vaccination?

Because the supply of H1N1 influenza vaccine is very limited and hospitals and community medical providers have not yet been able to vaccinate their staff, vaccine at community clinics is currently being provided only to:

• Medical care personnel (e.g., physicians, nurses, physician assistants, medical assistants, nursing assistants) and emergency medical services personnel (e.g., emergency medical technicians, paramedics) who must provide direct medical care to patients with potential H1N1 influenza or influenza-like illness (ILI).

The following are NOT currently eligible for H1N1 influenza vaccine at community clinics:

• Students, including medical, nursing, dental and other healthcare professions
• Counselors, including mental health, drug and alcohol
• Dental personnel, including dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, etc.
• Therapists, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, etc.
• Ancillary staff, including office, billing, etc.