“This year FluMist is not recommended because over the last two seasons the effectiveness against one of the strains in the vaccine has not been clearly demonstrated, so the advisory committee on immunization practices has suggested that this year it not be utilized”, Gerri Yett who is the Alaska Immunization Program Manager for the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services said. However, the SCHSA said no one will be turned away from getting the vaccination for inability to pay.
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Wilson says she is already seeing patients for this year’s flu shot.
People looking to get their Flu vaccine, should ask their medical professional or go to a local pharmacy.
Seasonal flu activity does have an element of unpredictability, however in the past flu season typically starts in October and continues through May, with peaks in December through March.
Saturday clinics will be 11 a.m. -2 p.m. October 22 at South-Doyle High School, and 9 a.m. -noon October 29 at Gibbs High School.
“The flu virus can be spread 24 hours before a person is aware that they are ill”, said SCHSA Public Health Officer Dr. John Walker.
Wednesdays: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
For children 6 months and older, there will be a Community Walk-In Flu Shot Clinic on Thursday, September 29th, from 12:00 p.m.to 4:00 p.m.at the Exhibition Hall, located at Montana Expopark. On Tuesday, Fresno County kicked off the first of 17 flu clinics it will hold this season.
Flu vaccine is $20 (cash, check, and credit card) or no charge with proof of the following insurances: Altius, DMBA, Adult Medicaid, Medicare (depending on HMO), PEHP, SelectHealth, United Healthcare, and Tall Tree.
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If you have more questions about influenza or times of clinics, please call Lincoln County Health Department at 715-536-0307.
