Marblehead flu clinic still on for Thursday, others ‘on hold’

MARBLEHEAD – Thursday’s scheduled seasonal flu clinic will take place as previously announced: 9 a.m.-noon at the Marblehead Community Center, 10 Humphrey St., for persons 65 and older.Director of Public Health Wayne Attridge said all other seasonal flu clinics are “on hold” at present.That includes flu clinics for residents 50 and older, Marblehead High students and town employees.However, a public informational session on “Flu Care at Home,” open to everyone, will be held as scheduled Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 5 p.m. at the Marblehead Community Center.”The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has prioritized the manufacturing of H1N1 (flu vaccine), causing a delay in the distribution of seasonal flu vaccine,” Attridge said.”As of this date H1N1 flu clinics will be scheduled for November and December.”Updated information and guidelines for the treatment and prevention of the flu are available at www.marblehead.org or www.mass.gov/dph/flu. The health department office can be reached at 781-631-0212.Seasonal Adult Vaccine Administration Record Forms and instructions can be downloaded from a link at www.marblehead.org for those who wish to complete the form in advance. The online form is valid for the Oct. 1 clinic only and will be updated for the Oct. 17 clinic.”This is a very challenging time for public health personnel. Your patience and understanding is appreciated,” Attridge said.