MOSES LAKE, WA. -- Grant County officials declared a public health emergency this week, saying there's been an increase in the number of people hospitalized for flu-like illnesses.
Officials say that while the "H1N1 pandemic virus" grows, there is limited supply of vaccines.
According to Grant County officials, declaring a public health emergency "gives public health officials, first responders and hospitals greater flexibility in controlling the spread of the virus," and "paves a way for certain emergency medical services workers the ability to administer the H1N1 vaccine."
“Unlike seasonal influenza, the new strain of influenza is infecting the younger populations in greater numbers,” states Peggy Grigg, Grant County Personal Health Administrator and Personal Health Director. “We understand that people are frustrated with the lack of H1N1 vaccine available in our community. Due to vaccine supply, the Health District is constantly reevaluating our H1N1 vaccination plans. Our planning is to determine vaccination needs based on which people in our community are most impacted by influenza.”
KREM.com is working to learn more about this declaration and what it means for the community. Stay with KREM.com for updates throughout the day.
