By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-867912.mp3
Dallas, TX –
Dallas County will offer its first H1N1 flu shots to the public, starting Friday.
The Health Department has nearly 11 thousand free doses to deliver - starting with children, 6 months to 18 years, who have underlying medical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes.
Medical Director Dr. John Carlo says the state has requested that these first shots go to uninsured children normally served by the Dallas County Health Department. Parents must call for an appointment Friday, Monday, or Tuesday.
Carlo: We will not be taking walk ins at this time. It is very important to not come in expecting to receive the vaccine. And you will be given information over the phone about what information you'll need to bring with you in order to have your child vaccinated.
The H1N1 Hotline -- 214-819-6001 - opens for calls at 8am today.
H1N1 shots will be available for others in high risk groups on Wednesday, November 4th at the Dallas County Health Department on Stemmons Freeway. Dr. Carlo says they are expecting a very large crowd, and long lines.
Tarrant County holds its first H1N1 vaccine clinic at Thomas Coliseum in Haltom City Friday. Shots will be given to pregnant women and children with underlying medical conditions.
Dallas County, yesterday, reported its 14th H1N1 death - a 35 year old man with significant underlying medical conditions.