Swine flu vaccinations for children under three begin on Monday

Helsinki clinics expect large crowds

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Child health clinics expect a busy day on Monday, when swine flu vaccinations begin for children under the age of three. In Helsinki, the vaccinations are available at the nearest child health centre. No reservations are necessary.
      Municipal epidemiologist Hannele Kotilainen says that to avoid stressful waits in crowded areas, queueing numbers are to be given to people showing up with their children, giving them an idea of how long it will take to get the shot.
      “Parents and their children can go for a walk, or into the park, and come back to queue in a few hours, for instance”, Kotilainen says.
     
Kotilainen asks that parents leave prams at home, if at all possible, as they add to the physical congestion.
      She also promised that if those with queue numbers who were not able to get vaccinated on Monday would be at the front of the queue on Tuesday with the same numbers.
      “I understand that parents of children are concerned and want their children to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Nevertheless, hopefully some could wait to get the vaccine only on Tuesday or Wednesday.”
      Kotilainen emphasised that there is enough vaccine to go around for everybody.
     
“There have been enquiries from Muslim families about the ingredients used in the manufacture of the vaccine. It does not contain any pig-based products, or gelatine”, Kotilainen says.
      She urged immigrant families in Helsinki to get the vaccination.
     
In addition to children under three, who comprise the latest group on the priority list, vaccines are still available to pregnant women and those under the age of 65, who are members of risk groups.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Swine flu vaccine running low in some municipalities (10.11.2009)
  Swine flu spreading in south of Finland (4.11.2009)
  No change in vaccination schedule over swine flu deaths (5.11.2009)
  Swine flu shots found to cause mild symptoms of disease (22.10.2009)

Helsingin Sanomat