Immunization Program

Date: January 3, 2008                       
To: Pediatric Vaccine Providers
From: Patricia Raymond, Immunization Program Manager
Re: Influenza Vaccine Supply for Children

We want to encourage our partners to continue flu shots for all their pediatric patients.  To date, we have shipped only about 62% of the total doses of influenza vaccine that were pre-booked by pediatric providers in July and August, so there is still plenty of flu vaccine available. 

CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that influenza vaccine be offered as long as influenza viruses are continuing to circulate in the community.  Flu activity is expected to increase over the next few weeks as the number of flu cases typically peaks in January or early February. 

In the 2005-2006 CDC vaccination coverage report, 49% of Rhode Island children 6-23 months of age received the first dose of influenza vaccine and 40% were fully vaccinated with 2 doses. Although coverage rates in Rhode Island remain higher than the national average, there is still much room for improvement.

As you know, Rhode Island is extremely fortunate to have a universal vaccine system whereby all routine vaccines are available for children through 18 years of age.  We encourage providers to offer influenza vaccination at every opportunity---sick and well-child visits, throughout the season.  No child should have to go unprotected against flu.

Providers should continue to submit flu vaccine orders weekly for as long as vaccine is available.  The table below outlines the type and number of doses still available.

If you have questions about ordering vaccine please contact Mark Francesconi at 222-5988 or mark.francesconi@health.ri.gov.