C-D-C director says some flu vaccine can be given to public
WASHINGTON The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are some cases in which the general public can receive flu shots, given that tens of thousands of doses could otherwise go to waste. Doctor Julie Gerberding (GUR'-bur-ding) tells C-B-S this would be the case with "private doctors" who have extra vaccine they haven't been able to give to high-risk people.
She still stresses that all people 65 and older, those with serious medical conditions, pregnant women and health care workers who have direct contact with patients should still get first priority.
Gerberding says there's a surplus because several high-risk types "haven't stepped forward to get it."
She adds that flu season peaks in February, so she still urges these individuals to get vaccinated while supplies last.
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