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A record number of residents were vaccinated against the seasonal flu on Monday.
AVALON, CATALINA ISLAND - Nearly 900 people have received vaccinations on the island, including more than 800 who received their influenza vaccine at Catalina Island Medical Center's first flu shot clinic. Dozens lined up beginning at 7:30 a.m. to take advantage of the seasonal flu shots, which this year were offered at no charge.
"We were able to serve hundreds of individuals on a single day," said Shawn Nemecek, director of medical group services. "Patients were very appreciative."
According to CIMC physician Dr. Tracey Norton, immunization is the most effective way to avoid contacting the flu.
Although Catalina Island Medical Center has distributed its initial supply of vaccine, Nemecek said she is working to obtain an additional supply from Los Angeles County. Any additional vaccines will be distributed at the Catalina Island Medical Group offices.
The medical center will also be distributing the vaccine for H1N1, or swine flu, as soon as it is available.
Norton encouraged all residents to take common sense precautions to protect themselves against H1N1. Those precautions include frequent and thorough hand washing by children and adults as well as the use of anti-bacterial soaps and sprays. Avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose and mouth as those are pathways viruses and bacteria use for infection. She said that anyone who does become ill should stay home until 24 hours after the last fever.
For more information, call the Catalina Island Medical Group at (310) 510-0096.
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