Created on Tuesday, 15 September 2009 09:38

Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391

Flu Helpline to Open for Marion County Residents Beginning September 21

The Marion County Health Department will open its 221-3366 Flu Helpline to respond to general questions relating to seasonal and H1N1 flu beginning Monday, September 21.

Health educators will be available to respond to questions in English and Spanish Monday thru Friday, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Those calling after these hours can leave a message and have their call returned the next business day.

“Our residents should be reassured that we have plans and resources in place for this flu season. The Flu Helpline is part of our plan,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Health Department.

Dr. Caine is asking local residents to use the Flu Helpline for non-emergency questions to keep 911, the Mayor’s Action Center, 211 and other community resources from being inundated with calls best answered by the health department.

Influenza information is also available at the Marion County Health Department Web site, www.mchd.com and through updates on Indianapolis City television station WCTY Channel 16