September 14, 2009
The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals has opened online registration for health care providers interested in administering the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine, expected to be available initially in limited quantities in October. Also, State Health Officer Jimmy Guidry, M.D., has issued an order and protocol allowing Louisiana Board of Pharmacy-certified pharmacists to join doctors, hospitals, and local health departments in administering both seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu vaccines. These important steps will help keep more people healthy, ensure more effective provision of influenza immunizations, and allow the state to better manage the 2009 flu season.