In an effort to get more Pierce County residents vaccinated against the H1N1, Swine Flu, influenza, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has announced a campaign to encourage vaccinations, even though cases locally have decreased.

“According to the CDC, influenza epidemics can be unpredictable,” said David DeLong, Public Health Information Officer for Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. “If H1N1 follows the same patterns as regular flu, we could see an increase in H1N1 by the end of March. Now is the time people should get their H1N1 shot to protect themselves should this increase occur.”

Several states in the country are still reporting widespread H1N1, but cases have been steadily declining locally over the past two months, but public health officials say that this is the ideal time to prevent an uptick in reported cases by getting a vaccination.

The campaign will consist of ads airing on local radio and television and appearing in local newspapers with a simple message: Remember to get a shot.

Vaccination is the best protection against H1N1. Flu season is expected to continue through March. The H1N1 vaccination is available to anyone 6 months of age and older while supplies last. Children under 10 years old need two doses of vaccine as one dose is less effective against the virus. Children under 10 years of age who are due for their second vaccinations are requested to bring their vaccination record.

The health department, and its community partners, will continue to host vaccination clinics throughout Pierce County. The department hosts weekly clinics at its main building, 3629 South D St. in Tacoma. The clinics are from 2 to 6 p.m. Mondays and Fridays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.

Visit www.tpchd.org and click on H1N1 for additional information and clinic schedules.