Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services offering flu vaccines
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) is now administering flu vaccines through school-based flu clinics, outreach clinics around Boone County, and curbside appointments.
Experts say the flu vaccines is crucial this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although a flu vaccine does not protect you against COVID-19, it can help to reduce the overall prevalence of respiratory illness in your community, according to the CDC.
"The most effective protection against influenza is vaccination," PHHS Director Stephanie Browning said. "Not only does the vaccine protect you fr om infection, it also protects those around you, including those who may be more vulnerable to severe illness."
The vaccine will be available to all residents aged six months and older. PHHS will provide flu vaccinations at no cost to those between the ages of six months and 18 years thanks to a continued partnership with MU Health Care and the David B. Lichtenstein Foundation.
The cost of the vaccine for residents age 19 and older will vary depending on their insurance coverage. The PHHS clinic accepts cash, credit and debit cards and checks and can bill various insurance plans through a system known as VaxCare. For self-pay residents, the cost of the vaccine is $25.
School-based clinics began Sept. 22. Parents with any questions about their school’s participation are encouraged to contact their school nurse. Curbside flu shots will be available at PHHS by appointment only.
Community-based drop-in clinics:
Sept. 30, 3:30-6 p.m.
- Sturgeon, Sturgeon Elementary School
Oct. 5, 2-3 p.m.
- Rocheport, Rocheport Moniteau Housing
Oct. 7, 3:30-6 p.m.
- Hallsville, Hallsville Intermediate School
Oct. 12, 9-10 a.m.
- Harrisburg, Harrisburg Legion Hall
Oct. 14, 3:30-6 p.m.
- Centralia, Centralia Intermediate School
Oct. 21, 3:30-6 p.m.
- Harrisburg, Harrisburg Community Room
Oct. 26, 3:30-6 p.m.
- Ashland, Ashland Primary School
