State Directs Swine Flu Vaccine to Little Diomede

Thu, November 5, 2009
Posted in Alaska News

State health officials have redirected 130 doses of H1N1 vaccine to the remote island village of Little Diomede. A medical team also was en route Thursday to the western Alaska island to treat additional people with suspected H1N1 flu infection and help prevent further transmission. Health officials say two residents were flown to Nome after exhibiting symptoms. One has tested positive in an initial rapid test. The town’s mayor, Andrew Miligrock, requested that a medical team and medication be sent to treat an increasing number of residents with flu-like symptoms. The 130 residents of Little Diomede have been without regular air passenger service for four months since a weekly helicopter flight stopped. The Alaska Army National Guard will respond to emergencies.

The Associated Press

Download Audio (MP3)

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.