Flu shot supply stressed

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - The flu continues to be a threat across the nation, including the Wabash Valley.

Experts encourage you to get your flu shot, but they're becoming more and more difficult to find.

The Vigo County Health Department reported giving 469 flu shots this season; nine of those were issued Tuesday.

There's a problem, however.  It only has 30 doses left.

Ambucare and Terre Haute Medical Clinics in Terre Haute said they're all out and not sure when they'll get more in.

Union Hospital said it's able to keep up.

Employees usually order the vaccine a few months ahead of time and can order it again at anytime.

"We've had a lot of people requiring admission to the hospital with flu-like symptoms.  We've had two or three days where we've actually been full.  Yesterday, there was a point where we only had two beds left," Union Hospital Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Bolinger said.

The health department donated 150 flu shot vaccines to St. Ann's Clinic. Every single dose has already been used.

You may have heard of the flu mist; News 10 could not find it anywhere.

According to Dr. Bolinger, it's similar to the flu shot and just as effective after it starts working. There's more potential of getting the flu directly afterward because it's a live virus, while the shot is not.