FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE      CONTACT: Donna Tommelleo, 860-524-7313

December 16, 2009                                            donna.tommelleo@ct.gov

                                                                          Diana Lejardi, 860-509-7599

                                                                          diana.lejardi@ct.gov

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that the state has now received enough H1N1 vaccine to make it available to anyone in Connecticut who would like to be vaccinated against the H1N1 flu.

More than 900,000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine have been distributed in Connecticut to doctors, local health departments and other providers who pre-registered with the Department of Public Health. High priority groups, such as pregnant women, young children, medical personnel and first responders, received the vaccine first.

“Fortunately, the state is seeing fewer H1N1 cases. However, it remains very important for everyone to continue take the necessary precautions to stay healthy this winter,” Governor Rell said. “The vaccine is now available for anyone interested in getting it.”

Those interested in getting vaccinated should contact their doctor or the local health department designated to administer the vaccine. Local health departments can be found at www.ct.gov/dph/mda

The Governor said the DPH is reporting a decline in H1N1 flu cases in the state, but does expect to see additional cases over the next several weeks. Common sense precaution, such as frequent hand-washing and covering your cough or sneeze, remain important practices in limiting the severity and spread.

Providers interested in obtaining the H1N1 vaccine may still pre-register with DPH by going to www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch/providers. For more information on the H1N1 flu call the H1N1 hot line at: 800-830-9426, or visit the CT Flu Watch website at www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch.

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