Just in time for National Influenza Week (January 10-16), the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals has expanded H1N1 vaccine availability to the general public. Until recently, the vaccine has been available only to high risk populations. Now, anyone interested in receiving the H1N1 vaccine may contact his or her healthcare provider, or any provider listed on the H1N1 flu shot locator at www.fighttheflula.com.

Children are at higher risk for getting both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 (swine flu) virus. The H1N1 vaccine will be available soon, but for now, parents are urged to get their children vaccinated against the common seasonal flu. While many are responding well to treatments for both the seasonal and H1N1 viruses, it’s important for parents to make sure they understand how to administer the proper dosage when giving flu treatments - especially involving young children.

Want up to the minute information about the H1N1 flu or other health topics? The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently launched a three-month pilot text program where you can sign up to receive the latest information about flu, public health emergencies and more via text messaging. Click here to find out how to sign up and be a part of their pilot text program.

The Centers for Disease Control provides swine flu (H1N1) information and resources for child care programs, schools, colleges and universities. There’s even a Communication Toolkit to help schools prepare for the H1N1 virus. Click here for more information.