By Galveston County Health District

Special to The Daily News  

Published December 14, 2009

The Galveston County Health District will be consolidating all immunization activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, beginning today and continuing through the year, at its headquarters, 1207 Oak St., in La Marque. 

Small immunization clinics in Dickinson, Galveston and Texas City will be closed until Jan. 4. 

During this period, the La Marque site will be offering free H1N1 vaccinations for anyone who would like to receive one. Other routine vaccinations will be offered according to the usual fees. 

Since the H1N1 season, the district has vaccinated more than 10,000 individuals for H1N1. Last week, the district experienced a decrease in numbers of people seeking the vaccine as well as numbers of reported cases of flu-like illnesses. 

“While we are currently seeing a decrease in the number of reported H1N1 cases, keep in mind that it is not too late to get vaccinated, and we may see another increase in reported cases before winter is over,” Dr. Mark Guidry, Galveston County health authority and chief executive office of the health district, said. 

“The most effective way to prevent H1N1 flu is to get vaccinated.” 

District officials also encourage everyone to stay informed and practice good hygiene habits to reduce the spread of H1N1 and seasonal flu. 

Recommended actions include covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing and sneezing, and frequent hand washing. 

If soap and water are not available a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol should be used. 

For information, call 409-938-7221, or visit gchd.org/chn/IMM.htm.

  (News Media: For more information contact Kurt Koopmann, GCHD Public Information Officer, 409-938-2211 or kkoopman@gchd.org)