The Health Department will offer the flu vaccine beginning Monday in all four of its locations. Eligible individuals may receive the vaccine for free.
“Many people still die each year in the US from influenza,” said Connie Buecker, Communicable Disease Program manager at the Health Department, “and even more people, such as children and older adults, experience serious complications. Vaccination remains the best way to prevent contracting the illness.”
As of May 23, a total of 141 confirmed influenza-related deaths in children were reported to the CDC from 40 states and New York City.
This represents a 30% increase in deaths of children for the 2014-15 flu season.
Cost and payment options through Health Department clinics:
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$35 - $55 depending on the type of flu vaccine indicated
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The cost may be covered under these plans: Medicare, Blue Cross Networks P, S or E, Blue Advantage, Railroad Medicare, TennCare, and CoverKids
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Uninsured and under-insured adults and children can receive the vaccine at reduced or no charge
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If ineligible for reduced charge, cash, credit card, or check will also be accepted
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You may be able to “bundle” the flu vaccine with the pneumonia or Tdap (pertussis) vaccines; the staff will help you decide which vaccinations and payment options are best for you
Residents are encouraged to call for information or to schedule flu vaccination appointments at one of the following locations between 8 a.m.4 p.m., Monday through Friday:
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Third Street Clinic – adults (19 years and over), 423-209-8340; children (6 months-18 years), 423-209-8050
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Ooltewah Health Center – 423-238-4269
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Sequoyah Health Center – 423-842-3031
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Birchwood Health Center – 423-961-0446
In addition to vaccination, take steps to prevent the spread of flu and other contagious diseases:
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Wash hands with soap & water frequently or use an alcohol-based sanitizer
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Avoid sick people
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it
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If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine
For more information call the numbers above, visit the Health Department website at
health.hamiltontn.org or the CDC at
www.cdc.gov/flu.