Protect yourself from the flu this season. You can get the vaccine for free this weekend.
Seven hundred (700) free flu doses are ready to be given to children and adults 6 months and older while supplies last, on Saturday October 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The vaccination clinic will take place at the corner of Euclid Ave. and 8th Street in National City at the Paradise Valley Hospital employee parking lot.
“The best protection we have against the flu is to get vaccinated,” said Vice Chairman Greg Cox, County Board of Supervisors. “I already got my shot, and I hope South County residents come to the flu clinic this weekend and get their shots too. Best of all, it doesn’t cost a thing.” ”
Vice Chairman Cox will be joined by National City Mayor Ron Morrison and Assemblymember Ben Hueso at the vaccination clinic which is part of the National City Health and Wellness Fair sponsored by National City Times, Paradise Valley Hospital and the County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA). Free health screenings will also be given at the fair, which starts at 10 a.m.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. People at higher risk of serious complication from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease and those over 65.
Influenza has the potential to cause illness and may even lead to death. Nationwide, approximately 36,000 deaths are attributed to the influenza virus each year.
“Influenza has contributed to the deaths of dozens of local residents in the past few years” said Barbara Gee, HHSA public health nurse. “Raising awareness about the importance of immunizations and giving people access to vaccines are part of the County’s Live Well, San Diego! initiative, an ongoing plan to improve health and well-being in the region.”
The flu vaccine is also available countywide at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies. County public health centers have flu vaccine available for children and adults with no medical insurance. Visit www.sdiz.org or call 2-1-1 for a list of locations.
