Whooping Cough Vaccine Available During Department Outreach Event

 As the number of Pertussis (Whooping Cough) cases in El Paso continues increase, the City of El Paso Department of Public Health remains committed to vaccinating as many children as possible. During January and February, 14 cases of Pertussis were reported to the Health Department; compared to 4 cases reported during the same period in 2012.

“Pertussis is a highly contagious disease and the best way to prevent the disease among infants, children, and teens is to get vaccinated,” said Alejandra Rodarte, Public Health Supervisor. Additionally, family members and caregivers who are in close contact with infants should get vaccinated against Pertussis.

The vaccine will be available for children during an outreach event on:

Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Horizon McDonald’s
1274 Horizon Blvd.
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 pm.

In addition to the Pertussis (Dtap/TdaP)vaccine, the Department will also be offering; Influenza, Hep B, Hep A, Hib, PCV13, IPV, MMR, Varicella, MCV4, HPV,  for children 0 to 18 years old. The cost is $10.00 for one vaccine and $20.00 for two or more, and payment will be accepted in cash, local check, CHIP (El Paso First only), or Medicaid (El Paso First only).

In order for clients, birth through 18 years of age, to be eligible to receive Texas Vaccines For Children (TVFC) immunizations at the Department of Public Health Clinics, they must be:

•           Medicaid eligible

•           Uninsured: a child who has no health insurance coverage

•           American Indian or Alaskan Native

•           Enrolled in CHIP

•           Underinsured

Underinsured definition from DSHS – A child who has commercial (private) health insurance, but coverage does not include vaccines.

To learn more about the programs and services offered by the City of El Paso Department of Public Health please visit: www.elpasotexas.gov/health  or call 2-1-1.