[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Flu Vaccine Reduced to $15

[Press Releases]

For Immediate Release
November 30, 2010
 
Geni Alexander, Public Information Officer
(573) 874-7632 or gaalexan at gocolumbiamo.com  
 
Flu Vaccine Now = Protection Before the Holiday Break
 
COLUMBIA- The Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and
Human Services has already given nearly 9000 flu vaccinations this
season, including more than 4600 to elementary-aged children who were
vaccinated at school. Health officials know that people who have been
vaccinated are less likely to get the flu, which is why the health
department encourages an annual vaccination.  
 
To make vaccination even easier, effective immediately, the
Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services has
reduced the cost of the flu vaccine to $15 (for both shots and FluMist).
Children age 18 and under are still FREE of charge, regardless of their
insurance status. Medicare and Medicaid recipients will also receive flu
vaccine free of charge.
 
It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the body to
develop protection. Now is a great time to be vaccinated before families
start traveling (and spreading germs) over Christmas break.
 
Flu vaccine is available on a walk-in basis (no appointment needed)
Monday through Friday from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm at the health department
clinic, located at 1005 West Worley. For faster service, the required
consent forms can be printed and completed prior to arrival. To download
the forms, visit www.gocolumbiamo.com and follow links to the health
department’s flu page.
 
In addition to being vaccinated, the health department recommends these
healthy practices:  
•     Avoid close contact with people who are sick
•     Stay home from school or work when you are sick
•     Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze (with your
elbow or a tissue, NOT with your hand!)
•     Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer
 
For more information on the flu, please visit www.gocolumbiamo.com or
www.fighttheflumo.com.
 
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