H1N1 flu not major threat this year, experts say

While nearly 100 percent of all influenza diagnoses last year were the H1N1 virus, there is no indication that the same problem should occur this year in St. Charles Parish, according to Julia Bodden with the St. Charles Community Health Center.

Bodden said that experts predict a return to older patterns of the flu virus this year with at least three strains circulating.

So far this fall, about 100 people have taken advantage of the Community Health Center’s $15 vaccinations, which include protection against the H1N1 strain.

The vaccinations are available without an appointment at the clinic. The clinic is located at 843 Milling Ave. in Luling and is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

For more information on the center, visit www.stcchc.org or call (985)785-5800.