Twin Cities flu clinics set for this weekend

 Flu clinics held across the state this week have been popular -- but not too popular, say health officials. Thousands of both healthy and not-quite-so healthy children have received H1N1 immunizations through clinics organized by public health agencies.

The lines in many places have been long, but orderly and efficient, health officials said. State health officials were concerned that opening vaccine clinics to the public might result in unmanageable crowds and demands for immunizations from those who are not in the targeted high risk groups.

"Maybe we've turned the corner in terms having some critical mass of vaccine," said Kris Ehresmann, director of the vaccine program for the Minnesota Department of Health. "People feel more comfortable offering it more openly."

Anoka County officials administered about 3,000 doses Wednesday, and Hennepin County used about 1,500.

More than 825,000 doses have been distributed in Minnesota since the vaccine began arriving in the fall.

However, the vaccine clinics are still targeting high risk groups - healthy children under age 9, those with chronic health problems through age 18, pregnant women, adults who care for infants under six months, and health care workers. There still is not enough vaccine for healthy older children or adults.

Public health agencies scheduled 156 clinics statewide this week.

On Saturday, Fairview Clinics will offer walk-in vaccination clinics at its locations in Minneapolis, Bloomington, Fridley, Eagan and Wyoming. Details are posted at www.fairview.org/flu.

Other clinics planned for this weekend include:

Bloomington, Edina, Richfield

Who: Children ages 6 months through 9 years; children 10-18 years with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, and lung problems; children and adults who live with or care for children younger than 6 months.

When: Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Oak Grove Middle School in Bloomington; Richfield Middle School; and South View Middle School in Edina.

Details: No appointments are required, but there is a limited amount of vaccine. People are asked to wear short-sleeve shirts and to bring an insurance card if they have one. For more information: 952-563-8900.

Dakota County

Who: Healthy children 2-9. Only nasal vaccine is available, which is not appropriate for children with health problems.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, at the Dakota County Northern Service Center, 1 Mendota Road W., West St. Paul; and the Dakota County Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Av., Apple Valley.

Ramsey County

Who: Healthy people 2-24. Only nasal vaccine is available, which is not appropriate for people with health problems.

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, at North Heights Lutheran Church, 2701 N. Rice St., Roseville.

Details: Vaccine will be provided free on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments will be taken. Consent forms required for minors. For more information: www.co.ramsey.mn.us/ph or call 651-266-2440.

Washington County

Who: Healthy kids 4-9. Some injectable vaccine is available for older kids with chronic health conditions.

When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon, Headwaters Forest Lake Service Center, 19955 Forest Road N.; Cottage Grove Service Center, 13000 Ravine Pkwy. S.; Washington County Government Center, 14949 62nd St. N., Stillwater.