The Ohio Department of Health is reminding parents that all children under the age of ten-years should receive two doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine in order to achieve complete protection against the virus.

Children ten-years and older need only one dose of the vaccine to be protected; however, research has shown that two doses are required for those 6 months to 9 years. Children under the age of 6 months are not able to receive the flu vaccine.

"Please fully protect your youngsters by ensuring they receive two doses of H1N1 vaccine," said ODH Director Alvin Jackson, M.D. "More than two million doses have been distributed in Ohio, so check with your doctor or local health department regarding availability."

The two doses of vaccine should be separated by 28 days to be most effective.

Thorough washing of hands, covering mouths when sneezing or coughing, and staying home from work or school if sick are precautions also urged by health officials. "Common sense if your best defense," said Jackson.