Health official: Next 8, 10 weeks will be crucial

Although it may be too early to tell, some officials predict another H1N1 wave to hit within the next 10 weeks.

"The next 8 to 10 weeks will be essential. We don't know what might happen but we can't afford to take H1N1 less seriously as we did until now," said Robert Palussek, Highlands County Health Department administrator.

According to the health department, every pandemic has about three to five waves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that swine flu activity has declined significantly since Jan. 9. but people are still at risk.

Within the last two weeks no deaths have been reported in Florida, Palussek said.

"In general terms, it is good news but there is always a possibility of a stronger phase," he said.

Since H1N1 emerged in April 2009, it has been the most active form of influenza in the United States. It peaked during the summer and again in the fall when school began.

The week ending on Oct. 24 had the highest number of reported cases, according to the CDC.

That's when 49 out of 50 states reported widespread cases of the H1N1 virus.

Since October, the local health department has administered 6,300 doses with the most between November and December. Recently, the number has declined.

The health department administered vaccines to the following age groups: 6 months to 9 years: 777, 10 to 19: 784, 20 to 49: 792, 50 to 64: 664, over 65: 1,679.

Swine flu facts

As of Jan. 19 in Florida

•1,215 hospitalizations with lab confirmed to be due to H1N1

•187 deaths from lab confirmed to be due to H1N1

Clinics

The health department encourages the public to get vaccinated at one of its free clinics.

Here is the schedule:

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Reflections Wellness Center in Sebring, 154 S. Commerce Ave.

Friday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lakeshore Mall/ Annual Health Fair 901 U.S. 27 N.

Tuesday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Union Congregational Church in Avon Park, 106 N. Butler Ave.