Funding for free flu clinics ends
By Amy Marchiano, Republican & Herald, Pottsville, Pa. | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
"This year there won't be any grants on any vaccine,"
In an email, she said that the
Although people with medical insurance or
"We're concerned about people who will not have access, whether through finances or lack of insurance. We don't know how big of an issue it's going to be," she said.
Last year, about 2,600 people received free flu shots through various clinics in the county. In 2011, Schuylkill VISION distributed the first flu shots. And Jones said that VISION is working to find organizations that can provide the vaccine again for the 2014 flu season.
"The immunization coalition will try to get some free vaccines, but we don't know if we will be able to," Jones said.
The coalition is comprised of those involved in public health in the county, which includes the local department of health and Diakon Community Services for Seniors.
Holli Senior, deputy press secretary with the state
"Due to the decrease in funding, the department is no longer in the position to provide free influenza vaccine to adults. The funding I am referencing is 317 funding, which is federal funding that was decreased by 54 percent for 2014. The 317 program has evolved over time to fill gaps and address priorities in our vaccine programs. As the Affordable Care Act is implemented, more individuals will have coverage for vaccines through both public and private insurance," she said in an email.
According to www.cdc.gov, Section 317-funded vaccines are for people who "are under-insured or their parents cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs required to fully vaccinate their children."
A lot of seniors took advantage of the vaccines, Leahy said.
"I didn't even feel it," he said of the needle.
"It's important that everyone get the flu shot," she said.
Earlier this month, the pharmacy started administering the vaccine, which most insurance companies pay for. Brennan said she has personally given 50 flu shots. No appointment is needed. High doses are available for seniors too, she said.
Some people think they get sick from getting the vaccine, but Brennan said this is a common misconception. More likely is they already have the flu and do not know it.
Some people do experience soreness in their arm, though, because "the needle is actually penetrating the muscle," Brennan said.
Flu shots are available at most
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