More H1N1 vaccine has become available and will be offered in coming weeks both at Lakewood Health System clinics and clinics conducted by local public health agencies.

Guidelines for the vaccine have changed, beginning with these clinics:

Everyone 24 years old and under can receive the H1N1 vaccination.

Those 25-65 with underlying health conditions can get the H1N1 vaccine.

Lakewood Health System is dropping its visitation restrictions because we've seen a dramatic drop in flu cases.

H1N1 vaccine should be available at all LHS clinics during regular business hours: Staples, Motley, Pillager, Browerville and Eagle Bend

H1N1 mist or injection is available

Currently there are no seasonal flu vaccinations scheduled through LHS facilities.

Meanwhile, Todd County Public Health H1N1 influenza immunization clinics will be held:

o Dec. 4 at Staples Elementary in the multipurpose room on the south end of the building from 1to 6 p.m.

o Dec. 8 at Todd County Public Health in Long Prairie from 1 to 6 p.m

o Dec. 10 at Clarissa Elementary Public School, from 1 to 6 p.m.

People are in a priority group for H1N1 vaccine if you are:

o Pregnant

o People who live with or care for children younger than six months of age (including day care providers)

o Age six months through 24 years, whether or not you have a medical condition

o Working as a health care provider (including group home and/or foster care)

o Working as an emergency medical services personnel

o Age 25 years through 64 years, if you have a chronic medical condition that would put you at risk for complications (see list below)

o Chronic medical conditions that put you at risk for complications of flu (H1N1 or seasonal).

People who have these conditions should be vaccinated for both seasonal and H1N1 flu:

Asthma or lung disease

Heart disease (but not high blood pressure)

Kidney or liver disease

Metabolic disease, like diabetes

Anemia and other blood disorders

Muscle or nerve disorders, such as seizure disorders or cerebral palsy, that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems

Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or other diseases, long-term treatment with drugs such as steroids, cancer treatment with x-rays or drugs

Anyone six months through 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment (they could develop Reye Syndrome if they got the flu).

When the supply of H1N1 flu vaccine is no longer limited, it will be available for lower risk people including:

Ages 25 to 64, without a medical condition

People over age 65

The public health flu clinics require a parent or legal guardian to accompany their eligible child(ren) for vaccination.

No appointment is necessary. There will be a sign indicating which door to enter for the clinic.

Expanded eligibility is directed by the Minnesota Department of Health and will be advertised to the public by Todd County Public Health. Continue to read the county newspapers, and check the Todd County public health website.

Questions can be directed to your medical provider or public health at 320-732-4440.

Vaccine availability through public health is very limited. Vaccine has been distributed to area medical clinics. You are encouraged to check with your medical provider for vaccine.