EVENT October 31, 2009: Ridgefield Park Board of Health H1N1 Vaccination Update - October 2009 Ridgefield Park Board of Health H1N1 Vaccination Update October 2009 The H1N1 vaccine can only be given to the following 'target groups' at this time: Pregnant women - because they are at higher risk for complications and can potentially provide protection to infants who cannot be vaccinated. Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than 6 months - since younger infants are at higher risk of influenza-related complications and cannot be vaccinated. Vaccination of those in close contact with infants less than 6 months old might help protect infants by "cocooning " them from the virus. Healthcare workers and emergency medical services personnel - because infections among healthcare workers have been reported and this can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients. All people from 6 month through 24 years of age - because there have been many cases in this age group. In close contact settings, such as day care centers and schools, there is an increase of likelihood of disease spread. Persons aged 25 through 64 years old who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza - Current studies indicate that the risk for infection among persons age 65 or older is less than the risk for younger age groups. Once vaccine demand among younger age groups has been met, the vaccine may be offered to the older population. The local Health Department will be offering free H1N1 vaccine at public clinics to those in the above targeted groups once the vaccine is available and received. It is anticipated the earliest clinics may be in December. The dates, times and places will be determined and notice will be published and advertised as recommended by the NJ State Department of Health. You are encouraged to talk to your own medical provider about recommendations for the H1N1 vaccine for your family. Please go to www.cdc.gov for more H1N1 information.