Flu medication shortage in Kent County

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - The flu season is peaking early and hitting hard, and the Kent County Health Department said it is keeping in touch with pharmacies to make sure there is enough flu medication on hand.

Kent County has had 463 confirmed cases of the flu this season, health department spokeswoman Lisa LaPlante told 24 Hour News 8 Tuesday. There were only 94 cases during the entire last season.

That figure includes only cases in which doctors did tests to confirm the flu. It does not count those patients who were never tested or are seeking only over-the-counter treatment.

Two West Michigan schools are closed Wednesday because of illness: Lake Michigan Academy in Kent County and Palo Community Schools in Ionia County.

Area pharmacies have told the health department they are low on prescription flu medication -- particularly liquid doses for children, health department administrative health officer Cathy Raevsky said in a Tuesday news release.

LaPlante said the health department is staying in contact with pharmacies to determine if it needs to supplement supplies. She said it is unlikely pharmacies will completely run out of medication.

The health department does not fill prescriptions, LaPlante said. Anyone in need of a prescription will have to work with their pharmacy.

The health department recommends getting vaccinated against the flu. It offers vaccine injections for $25 and nasal mist for $32. Those wanting to make an appointment can call 616.632.7200.

LaPlante advised coughing and sneezing into a tissue or sleeve to prevent spreading the illness. She also recommended staying home from work or school if you are sick.

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Online:

Kent County Health Department flu information and prevention tips

Michigan Department of Community Health flu information and prevention tips