Mississippi is scheduled to receive swine flu vaccine beginning tomorrow in the form of a nasal spray, reports WXVT. About 500 distribution points for the spray include hospitals, clinics and pharmacies.
The state Health Department has ordered 10,000 doses of the vaccine, state Epidemiologist Mary Currier told WXVT, and it can be used by anyone in good health from 2 to 49 years old. It's not recommended for some high-risk groups, including pregnant women and people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
The Magnolia State has confirmed more than 900 cases of swine flu, including seven deaths since Aug. 7. Annually, the U.S. sees about 34,000 death from all forms of flu; those with underlying health issues are most at risk.
Health officials continue to advocate basic hygienic measures to curb the spread of flu, including soap-and-water hand washing, covering ones nose and mouth when sneezing, and staying home from work or school when ill. See a doctor if you experience flu symptoms, including sore throat and fever. For more information, see the Mississippi State Department of Health Web site.
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