MEMORANDUM
		GARY M. FELDMAN, M.D., FAAP, FABMG Public Health Officer
	DECEMBER 15 , 2004

TO: Clinicians, Hospitals, Long Term Care Facilities

FROM: Barbara Cole, RN, PHN, MSN

DATE: December 15, 2004

SUBJECT: Expanded Criteria for Receiving Influenza Vaccine

We would appreciate your assistance in getting the word out to medical providers concerning the expanded criteria for receiving flu vaccine. The state Public Health Order which outlines eligibility is attached.

We are encouraging providers to order additional vaccine to cover patients who now meet criteria. Vaccine is available for purchase through the CDC. To request vaccine, physician offices should complete the attached
Riverside County Department of Health 2004-05 Influenza Vaccine Inventory & Usage Survey and fax it to Karon Jones RN, Immunization Coordinator. The state has requested that local health departments serve as a broker for vaccine for the private sector.

Flu activity remains relatively low in Riverside County so there is still ample time for individuals to be vaccinated and protected against influenza.

Please contact me if you have questions. Thank you for your assistance.

Barbara Cole, RN, PHN, MSN
Director, Disease Control
(951) 358-5441
(951) 358-5102 - Fax

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Refer to CDC Website www.cdc.gov for more information about Influenza.

When available, additional information and resources will be placed on our Emerging Diseases page.