Published: November 19, 2009 12:00 am      

Bassett Healthcare to host free H1N1 flu clinic today

Bassett Healthcare will be holding a free H1N1 flu clinic for established pediatric patients today from 5 to 7 p.m. in Pediatrics on the 3rd floor of the Clinic building in Cooperstown. Patients must call ahead to schedule an appointment at 1- 800-227-7388.

Children 6 months through 18 years of age who have certain chronic medical conditions or a weakened immune system should get the flu shot (injected into the muscle). Both the nasal spray form of the vaccine or the flu shot can be given to healthy children 2-18 years of age.

This will be the initial vaccination for children through nine years of age as they are recommended to receive a second dose of the vaccine about a month later. Older children need only one dose.

Regardless of the need for a booster later and the question of vaccine availability, it is recommended all children get at least the initial immunization now for the protection it provides against the H1N1 virus.

For Cooperstown pediatric patients, call 547-3290 for an appointment. Bassett Healthcare Oneonta will be holding a free H1N1 flu shot clinic for established pediatric patients ages six months to three years of age, Saturday, Nov. 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 125 Main Street in Oneonta.

This clinic is also by appointment only. Call 607-433-1790. The H1N1 vaccine being offered is the injected, preservative free form. Children in the following categories qualify for this clinic:

Any child six months to three years of age.

Any child six months to three years of age with a long-term health problem.

Any child six months to three years of age with a weakened immune system.

Any child six months of age with a muscle or nerve disorder (such as seizure disorders or cerebral palsy) that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems.