Free flu shots available at clinics

A flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. (County of San Diego Communications Office)

Free flu shots available at clinics

The County of San Diego is ramping up its flu vaccination efforts to lower the risk of San Diegans getting influenza and the novel coronavirus at the same time and prevent the local healthcare system from being overwhelmed.

Every year, the County sponsors free vaccination clinics throughout the region where you can get a flu shot. Six clinics will be open in October and early November with vaccine available for adults and children ages six months and up.

“The clinics are free and primarily for people with no medical insurance,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “We want everyone to be protected against the flu and its possible complications.”

The clinics will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

Oct. 22
North Central Public Health Center – 5055 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA 92123

Oct 24
South Public Health Center – 690 Oxford St., Chula Vista, CA 91911

Oct. 27
North Coastal Public Health Center – 3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd., Oceanside, CA 92056

Oct, 28
Central Public Health Center VIP Trailer – 3177A Oceanview Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113

Oct. 29
East Public Health Center – 367 N. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020

Nov. 3
North Inland Public Health Center – 640 W. Mission Ave. #2, Escondido, CA 92025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a flu shot every year.

The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop, so it’s best to get your vaccine now before influenza starts to spread in the community.

Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications from influenza. They include:

• People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and lung disease, even if your symptoms are under control
• Pregnant women
• People 65 years and older
• People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:

• Wash hands thoroughly and often
• Use hand sanitizers
• Stay away from sick people
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Clean commonly touched surfaces
• If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others

The flu vaccine is covered by medical insurance and is also available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies.

People with no healthcare coverage can get vaccinated at a Community Health Center or County public health center throughout the flu season. For a list of locations, visit sdiz.org or call 2-1-1.