The first supply of vaccinations for the H1N1 Swine Flu is available in Walton County and recommended for persons most at risk for complications, including:

· pregnant women,

· people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age,

· health care and emergency services personnel,

· persons between the ages of 6 months through 24 years of age, and

· people from ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk for H1N1 Swine Flu because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems

No appointment is necessary. Vaccinations are offered at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Walton County Health Department will be conducting walk-in clinics at both of its locations: Defuniak Springs at 362 Hwy 83 and in Santa Rosa Beach at 361 Greenway Trail on the following dates and time:

Nov 12, 3-7 p.m.

Nov 19, 3-7 p.m.

Nov 14, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Community clinics will also be offered at the Paxton Agricultural Center at 22036-2 US Hwy. 331 North and the Freeport Fire Station at 100 Washington Street.

Nov 21, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The vaccination is offered on a voluntary basis, but Walton County Health Department officials urge residents that fall into at-risk categories to be vaccinated to limit their risk of exposure and transmission to others. The most effective precaution to fight influenza is getting vaccinated. As additional supplies of vaccination are received, all residents should be vaccinated on a first come, first serve basis. In the interest of public health, the Walton County Health Department is asking residents to be patient as H1N1 vaccine arrives over the next eight to twelve weeks.

As vaccine supply increases, some of the Walton County H1N1 vaccine will be provided to local physicians and hospitals, who plan to participate in the H1N1 vaccination program.