Although final influenza vaccine supply remains unknown, preliminary information indicates a greater availability of vaccine than initially forcast, says Mark Rupp, M.D., director of the Department of Healthcare Epidemiology. This has allowed for an earlier distribution date of vaccine for staff and patients in Tier II and Tier III.
Adhere to the following timetable:
- Tier I – Oct 1- Oct 31 — vaccination of all high-risk patients* and HCWs directly involved in their care, and persons who live with or care for persons at high risk.
- Tier II – Oct 17 – Nov 15 — vaccination of patients greater than 50 years of age and HCWs directly involved in their care.
- Tier III – Nov 1 – Nov 30 — vaccination of all others, including those with no patient or high-risk contacts.
* High risk people are those greater than 65 years of age; children aged 6–23 months; pregnant women; persons of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and caregivers of children aged < 6 months. (CDC, MMWR 54;RR08, 2005). Patients and staff should receive vaccine at a later date if they miss the target period. If you have any questions, contact The Nebraska Medical Center Department of Pharmacy (559-6041) or the Department of Healthcare Epidemiology (559-5276).