H1N1 vaccine still available in Linn, Johnson counties

Linn County will use leftover H1N1 vaccine in two free clinics this month.

Curtis Dickson, director of Linn County Public Health, said the vaccine doesn't expire until June 2011.

Dickson didn't have an exact count, but said thousands of doses are available.

Another wave of H1N1 influenza could hit before the regular flu season, and some cases are already happening in the United States, he said.

The department will offer vaccine clinics at the indoor vendor building at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Central City on two dates and by appointment only during several days this month at the health department, 501 13th St NW, Cedar Rapids.

The fairground clinics are walk-ins and open to anyone. Times are noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, July 9, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 10.

Appointment-only clinics at the health department will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 19 and 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on July 8, 15 and 22.

Appointments will be taken from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays by calling (319) 892-6093.

The vaccine is free.

Dickson noted that H1N1 vaccine will be included in the seasonal vaccine, but those shots might not be available before another wave of H1N1 hits.

Also, there will be a cost to the seasonal vaccine.

Doug Beardsley, director of Johnson County Public Health, said the department doesn't plan any special clinics to use its leftover vaccine.

People can get the vaccine at the health department, 855 S. Dubuque St. Suite 217, in Iowa City.

Call ahead at (319) 356-6040