Demand causing flu vaccine shortage in N.M.

Posted at: 10/14/2009 8:23 AM | Updated at: 10/14/2009 8:48 AM
By: Eyewitness News 4

So many people are worried about H1N1 flu in Santa Fe County that doctors are running out of the regular seasonal flu vaccine.

One mobile clinic reported giving about 1,500 vaccinations in a two month period last year.  This year, they've vaccinated more than 700 people in one week.

Health officials say there's a shortage of the regular flu vaccine nationwide because the companies who usually produce and package it are focusing their efforts on the H1N1 vaccine.

Meanwhile, hospitals around New Mexico are taking precautions to try and stop the spread of the flu, both seasonal and H1N1.  San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington and St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe are not allowing visitors under the age of 14.

Health officials say children tend to carry the virus longer.

Patients with flu symptoms are also being asked to wear masks while they are waiting to see a doctor.

Eyewitness News 4 and KOB.com are hosting a flu hotline on Thursday, October 15 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. to answer your questions.  Experts from the New Mexico Department of Health will be on hand to answer calls.

 Farmington hospital sees record number of flu patients

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