Boone County offers free flu shots to children

The Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services announced Monday they will host community flu clinics in rural areas this season.

Those through the age of 18 will be able to get the flu shot for free and anyone older can pay $25.

The Center for Disease Control states that last year the flu vaccine prevented 1.9 million flu related illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations.

The Director for Health and Human Services, Stephanie Browning, also encourages residents to get the vaccines, as they are the best prevention for the flu.

Those living in and near Columbia can stop by the department’s clinic at 1005 West Worley anytime from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the weekdays to get the shot.

Here is the the schedule for the rest of the clinics:

Centralia – Intermediate School, 550 W. Lakeview – Thursday, Oct. 13 – 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Hallsville – High School Cafeteria, West Gym Entrance, 421 E. Hwy 124 – Thursday, Oct. 20 – 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Ashland – Primary School, 803 S. Henry Clay Blvd. – Thursday, Oct. 27 – 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Harrisburg – Community Room, 1000 S. Harris St. – Thursday, Nov. 3 – 3:30 to 6 p.m.

No appointments are needed, walk ins are welcome wherever a flu shot is offered.