Hundreds get flu vaccine in Middletown

After closing two schools in Middletown, the town's health director opened up a flu clinic for hundreds of residents.

500 people were given the nasal spray to vaccinate against H1N1. The clinic was by appointment only and for the people most at risk, like the very young, and families with infants.

Many parents were relieved to be able to get their children in after doctors offices ran out.

There will be a second flu clinic next Thursday. For more information on how to sign up you can go to the Middletown Dept. of Health and Vital Statistics web site .

For Halloween, the Mass Dispensing Area 36 MDA, which comprises the towns of Cromwell, Durham, Haddam and Middlefield, and the City Of Middletown, posted the following guide about staying away from the flu over Halloween:

• Parents and kids should clean hands frequently with an alcohol-based sanitizer especially after touching someone’s else’s hand or objects such as door bells and door knobs.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth because germs can spread this way. Do not share items such as food or drink.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or use the crook of your elbow.
• Know the signs of becoming infected with flu virus. Like seasonal flu, the signs of H1N1 can include fatigue, sore throat, muscle aches, chills, coughing, sneezing, and fever. People with H1N1 may also experience diarrhea and vomiting.
• If someone does become ill with influenza stay at home and do not return to school or work until at least 24 hours after fever has subsided.