Flu Shots: Let the Vaccinations Begin

Orange County health officials Monday signaled the end of a monthlong delay in dispensing this year’s flu shots, announcing that the vaccination program will begin Nov. 1.

Nancy Wright, a spokeswoman for the Orange County Health Care Agency, said the delay that has affected clinics nationwide was caused by manufacturing problems. “Basically it took longer to make and culture the vaccine. We were warned of it well in advance.”

The county will give about 100,000 free flu shots to people older than 60 and those with chronic health problems such as diabetes, respiratory complications, asthma, compromised immune systems, heart disease or other conditions likely to be complicated by the flu.

The shots will be offered through November at four clinics: Santa Ana, 1725 W. 17th St., Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Buena Park, 7342 Orangethorpe Ave., Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Costa Mesa, 2845 Mesa Verde Drive East, Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and San Juan Capistrano, 27512 Calle Arroyo, Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Flu shots also are available in some workplaces and from private physicians.

Wright said there still should be plenty of time for people to get vaccinated before the flu season starts in December or January.