Created on Tuesday, 27 October 2009 13:15
Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391
Health Department Flu Helpline Surpasses 5,000 Calls
The Marion County Health Department Flu Helpline has received more than 5,000 calls since opening September 21.
As of October 27, the Flu Helpline has received 5,558 calls.
The 221-3366 helpline allows the public to ask general flu related questions.
“We are pleased with the response. People are concerned and it’s appropriate we provide this resource,” said Pam Thevenow, Flu Helpline Coordinator and administrator of the health department’s water quality and hazardous materials management program.
A majority of calls are from those wanting to know where they can get the H1N1 vaccine. Other callers want information on the seasonal flu vaccine.
“By and large callers are interested in getting the latest information. Most understand that we don’t have a lot of vaccine to distribute and that those in the at-risk groups are getting the initial doses of vaccine,” said Thevenow.
The Flu Helpline was established to provide current flu information and take calls that might otherwise go to 911, 211 or the Mayor’s Action Center.
Health educators are available to take calls in English and Spanish, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those calling at other times can leave a message and have their call returned.
