From press release

After completing preliminary visits to all Winnebago County schools, the Winnebago County Health Department has turned its attention to the general population for continuing vaccinations for 2009 H1N1 influenza through the holiday season.

To date, more than 21,000 children and citizens have received their H1N1 immunization. Increasing quantities of vaccine have been made available, and this will allow anyone who wishes to be inoculated to receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine.

The Winnebago County Health Department has scheduled two appointment-based clinics to service as much of the population as possible prior to the Christmas holiday. Appointments are now available for all Winnebago County residents and must be made through the appointment line at 1-800-649-2381. Residents may call this number 24 hours a day to reserve their vaccination time.

All forms of the vaccine, including a limited supply of the nasal spray, will be made available at these sites. If your child is age 9 or younger and received his or her first dose before Nov. 19, he or she may receive a second dose.

Appointment-based clinics are scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 19, at Auburn High School, 5110 Auburn St., access at Main Entrance, and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Heartland Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road (Newburg and Alpine), Rockford.

After completing several public clinics, the Health Department has compiled some tips for residents attending future clinics:

• Prepare to expose the uppermost part of your arm, near the shoulder.

• Medicare cards are not required.

• When bringing a child for their booster, if possible, please bring their vaccination card with the previous dosage information.

• Vaccinations are free of charge.

• People with allergies to eggs should not receive the vaccine.

• Clinics serve hundreds of people, and the staff does their best to get everyone in and out in a timely manner. Allow at least 15 minutes for your visit.

For more information about H1N1, including additional future clinic dates, visit www.wchd.org ^[1] or call (815) 720-4000. For seasonal flu shot information, call (815) 720-4264.