Norman-Mahnomen Public Health
This time of the year we are busy trying to get the word out to the public to get their flu shots! Every year is a challenge because of the past history of uncertain vaccine supply. Hopefully, after so many years of experiencing problems, the drug companies have perfected their systems and supply should no longer be an issue.
In the past, we seemed to be one of the primary providers that connected with the public and offered the vaccine. Now, the trend has gone to private providers (i.e. drug stores) or large clinics offering days of walk-in visits for shots. Doctor’s offices used to require a billable visit to get a flu shot, and now they offer days of shot "blitzes."
This year we are offering shots in our public health offices, and going to visit a few towns in our county to reach the general public. The past few years we have been working with Blue Cross and Blue Shield to provide vaccine to employers who have full coverage insurance for their employees. Our nurses go to the business site at convenient times and offer the shots to employees, spouses, and dependents. Each year we have had a better response to this "Flu Stop" Program, visiting such businesses as schools and large county groups. Blue Cross reimburses us after the process is done.
We put articles in the local papers to remind the public of receiving the influenza vaccine yearly, and notify them of our planned clinics.
We offer low cost vaccine to children who qualify through the Minnesota Vaccine for Children Program. Because of the deaths last year of a few Minnesota children, we are hoping for a good response to immunizing children this year. The CDC recommends all children age 6 months to 5 years and their household contacts be vaccinated.
For years we have been involved in the ongoing planning and education of the public for the possibility of an influenza pandemic. Epidemiologists assure us that the day will come when we face this problem again, and preparation is the key. We have staff that train in emergency preparedness, and work with numerous professionals in our counties in anticipation of this type of public health crisis.
Norman-Mahnomen Public Health has two offices, one in Ada and one in Mahnomen, with a total of 8 nurses and two office staff. If you would like more information about our agency, please call Ada at 218-784-5425 or Mahnomen at 218-935-2527.
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