RediClinic LLC, an approved provider of the H1N1 vaccine, received the serum Dec. 22 at six Austin-area clinics, including the Round Rock locations.

The vaccine is covered by most insurance plans, though patients should check with their insurance provider to verify coverage. The cost of the vaccine for patients not covered by insurance is $19.

The Texas Department of State Health Services and Texas health officials believe that the potential for another flu outbreak is strong, and are urging people to get their H1N1 flu vaccination now. Health officials also advise Texans to continue to use caution by washing their hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people, and staying home if they are sick.

RediClinic is located inside the H-E-B store in Pflugerville at 1434 Wells Branch Parkway.

For more information, visit rediclinic.com/austin.asp

Wear sun screen during winter months to keep skin healthy

Dermatologists at Baylor College of Medicine say continuing to wear sun block and moisturizers during the colder months is important for healthy skin year round.

“It’s very common to have dry skin during winter due to the colder, drier weather and the use of heaters,” said Dr. John Wolf, professor and chair of dermatology at BCM. “Going untreated, dry skin could lead to discomfort or even an itchy, painful rash known as winter itch.”

The key to prevention is moisturizing the skin. Wolf recommends starting with a lukewarm shower using a mild soap for sensitive skin. Before completely drying off, apply lotion or hand cream to damp skin.

“This traps moisture onto your skin,” Wolf said. “If you are adding lotion or hand cream to dry skin there will be some relief but you aren’t hydrating the skin as well as you could be.”

Wolf said the type of lotion isn’t as important as when you put the moisturizer on. As long as you like the brand and it doesn’t irritate your skin then it will work. For dry skin that needs extra help, Wolf suggests using a lotion or cream that contains petroleum jelly.

“For your face, make sure to find a lotion that includes some type of sun block protection,” Wolf added. “The sun’s rays can still be harmful during the winter.”