The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) will once again offer flu shots free of charge on Wednesday, November 1, part of the Fight Flu TN initiative with the Tennessee Department of Health. Flu vaccines will be available at the Lentz Public Health Center, the East Park Community Center and Plaza Mariachi. Starting that day, flu shots will be available at all MPHD clinics free of charge throughout flu season.
Flu shots will be available at the event on November 1 in a drive-thru setting at the Lentz Public Health Center from 10:00 a/m/ to 6:00 p.m. Flu shots will be available by walking into the East Park Community Center between 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Flu shots will be available on a walk-in basis at Plaza Mariachi from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Flu shots are available for everyone six months of age and older. Prior to receiving a flu shot, several questions are answered to determine the best form of flu vaccine for the recipient. Those who are 65 and older or have underlying health conditions can receive a high-dose version of the flu vaccine. High-dose vaccines are available inside MPHD clinics.
Nurses administering flu vaccines will need access to the top of the shoulder of the vaccine recipient. Those who receive flu vaccines are encouraged to wear clothing that gives easy access to the upper shoulder area like shirts with short sleeves or shirt sleeves that can be easily rolled up. Those who receive flu shots are also asked to wear a mask that covered the nose and mouth.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend all persons six months of age and older get the flu vaccine, especially those with underlying health conditions. According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 people who were hospitalized with the flu in recent years had at least one underlying health condition. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against four different strains of the flu.
COVID-19 vaccines will not be available at flu vaccine distribution points. Those in need of COVID-19 vaccines are encouraged to visit vaccines.gov to find a pharmacy or clinic near you. According to the CDC, it is safe to get a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.
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