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Seasonal flu shots are available in county now
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Houston County Public Health will be offering seasonal flu shots at their new Houston County Public Health location in the County Community Services (CCS) Building over the next several weeks. The building is located at 611 Vista Drive in Caledonia. It is recommended that people get their seasonal flu shots NOW due to the need for probable H1N1 vaccination which may be available later this fall.
Who should get a seasonal flu shot?
• All children from six months up to 18 years of age.
• Anyone 50 years of age or older.
• Women who will be pregnant during influenza season.
• Anyone with long-term health problems.
• Anyone with a weakened immune system.
• Anyone with certain muscle or nerve disorders (such as seizure disorders or severe cerebral palsy) that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems.
• Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities.
• Anyone who wants to be protected against the flu.
Seasonal flu shots will be available by appointment to limit your wait time, but walk-in clients will also be accepted. CCS is located on Highway 44 next to Subway, across from Quillin’s grocery store. Parking is available in the front of the building and the building is wheel chair accessible. Because of this easy access Public Health will not be holding seasonal flu shot clinics off site this year.
Cost for receiving the flu vaccine is $20 cash. If you are on a Medicare plan, UCare, Blue Plus, Medical Assistance or Blue Cross of Minnesota, please bring your insurance card so that coverage can be verified before receiving the vaccine. Anyone without their insurance identification will be required to pay cash.
The Centers for Disease Control and the Minnesota Department of Health both state that the immunity one gets with seasonal flu vaccinations lasts easily a year and does not wane over a few months time. If you get the vaccine now, you will be protected for the entire flu season. Stay healthy get a flu shot.
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