The Union County Health Department is offering two flu shot clinics in Richwood to give local residents an easy opportunity to get their annual shot.
Public health nurses from UCHD will be offering flu shots at the Richwood-North Union Public Library on Sept. 22 from noon to 2 p.m. and Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
An annual flu shot is recommended for most people ages six months and older.
“We are excited to resume our annual flu shot opportunities for our residents in the Northern portion of the county,” said Jennifer Thrush, public information officer for the Union County Health Department. “Our intent with the community clinics is to reduce some of the barriers that can limit a person’s ability to get a flu shot, such as transportation or an inability to get off work during the week.”
Appointments are preferred for the fastest experience and can be made by calling (937) 645-2058 and requesting the Richwood location.
Children and adults ages six months and older are welcome at the clinics.
Most insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. A sliding fee scale is available to people without insurance.
A high-dose flu vaccine recommended for people age 65 and older and an egg-free vaccine recommended for people with egg allergies are available in addition to a standard flu vaccine.
“While most people recover fully from the flu, there are thousands of Americans each year who die from flu-associated complications,” said Krista Finch, Director of Nursing for the Union County Health Department. “Flu shots are proven to reduce your likelihood of severe illness and the need for hospitalization. Protect yourself and your loved ones who may be at higher risk of complications by getting a flu vaccine.”
Flu vaccines protect against four strains of influenza viruses.
These four strains are selected based on a global surveillance network. This global network studies what strains of flu viruses are circulating around the world and examines trends identified in previous flu seasons.
The aim of this surveillance network is to predict which strains of influenza are most likely to be circulating in a given year.
For additional information on flu clinics, those interested may visit www.uchd.net or contact the Union County Health Department at (937) 642-2053.