Irwin County Health Department drive thru flu shot event

OCILLA – With COVID-19 still spreading across our community it is more important now than ever to protect yourself from the flu. Irwin County Health Department will hold a Drive Thru Flu Clinic on Wednesday, November 18. The event will be from 9-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3p.m. at the Irwin County Health Department, 407 West Fourth Street.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone 6 months of age and older should receive the flu vaccine each year. It is the first crucial step in protecting yourself and others against this serious illness. People at higher risk for contracting serious flu complications include: young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease, and people 65 years and older.

This event is open to anyone interested in receiving their vaccination. Insurance will be processed for those with coverage from the following carriers: Aetna, Anthem BCBS, Cigna, Coventry, United Healthcare, Medicaid (PeachState, AmeriGroup, CareSource, PeachCare & WellCare) and Medicare. You will need to bring your insurance card with you to the event.

For those who are self-pay, the cost is $21. Cash and card will be accepted on site. High dose flu vaccine will be available in limited supply to those who are 65+. This event is only available to those 19 years of age and older.

Vaccination for those under 19 will be available at the health department during regular clinic hours. Vaccines for those under 19 years of age and all other clinic services will not be available on the day of the drive thru clinic. COVID-19 testing will also not be available that day.

Vaccination is the best step to protect yourself from the flu. Remember, the flu ends with you.

For more information visit www.southhealthdistrict.com.