Abrahams Encourages Residents to Make Their Voices Heard at Flu Vaccine Meeting

January 27th Meeting to Discuss How Best to Prioritize Distribution of Vaccine in the Event of a Deadly Worldwide Outbreak of Flu

Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) and the Nassau County Department of Health are inviting county residents to voice their opinions on who should be eligible to receive scarce vaccine in the event of a deadly worldwide outbreak of flu. Experts say chances of such an outbreak – called flu “pandemic” – are increasing. Early in such an outbreak, the United States will lack an adequate supply of vaccine. Should this situation arise, difficult decisions must be made about who should receive vaccine first.

“With winter starting to rear its ugly head, now is the time to have this very important conversation,” Abrahams said. “It is important for all residents, both young and old, to make their voices heard.”

Resident input is needed at a free meeting in this decision-making process regarding how best to prioritize the distribution of vaccine. A $50 stipend will be offered to all those who pre-register and attend the full meeting on:

Saturday, Jan. 27, 2007

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Hofstra University

Student Center Multi-purpose Room

North Campus

200 Hofstra University

Hempstead, New York 11549

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided.

We are encouraging Nassau residents with NO legal, medical or governmental knowledge or affiliation to attend.  We are looking for the “everyday” citizens from all communities.

To pre-register by phone: Please call (toll-free) Sierra Trujillo at 1-800-219-6670. To pre-register on-line, go to hhtp://tinyurl.com/y9hyss.

“A flu pandemic would have a profound impact on each one of us, and on every sector of society,” said Dr. David Ackman, Commissioner of Health. “It is crucial that we work together to make the best plans possible. Do not miss this chance to voice your opinion.”

The meeting is being sponsored by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), and The Keystone Center, in cooperation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as the New York State Department of Health, the Hon. Michael Balboni and the Nassau County Department of Health.

For more information, including directions to the meeting, please visit the website at: hhtp://tinyurl.com/vgsv35.