Sometimes it takes a group of people to make a difference. Medical experts all over the world stepped up to help protect and educate people about the H1N1 virus. Right here at home, the Alleghany District Health Department jumped into action. The department will be honored duirng our Celebration of Heroes breakfast March 31st.
Just before the flu hit, the Alleghany District Health Department was ready. "We did our best to keep the community educated and informed," said Dr. Stephanie Harper with the Virginia Health Department.
They planned, and let WSLS inside to see the facility that stored a stockpile of anti-viral medicine that could be used in a possible flu pandemic.
But for all the planning, reality got in the way bringing more challenges to overcome. There was not only a new virus but a delay in the vaccine to help protect you from it.
"As it worked out when we were ready to go with the vaccine, the vaccine wasn't ready," she said.
Plans were adjusted. "Flexibility was one of the key action words." Through it all, the health department stayed out in front of the community. Setting up a call center to take your questions.
"The first day our call center opened the phone calls came in to such a degree that it flooded our fully staffed call center." They set up shop near Valley Metro, giving drivers and riders a chance to get vaccinated.
They hit malls to vaccinate shoppers and airwaves to remind people at home. "More people got vaccinated but they got vaccinated earlier," said Harper.
The message got through potentially protecting more people in the entire community.
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