Sandusky Co. public health sets flu clinics

Sandusky County Public Health has announced its seasonal flu clinics. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season, the health department said in a news release. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from the flu - including older adults, pregnant women, young children and those with chronic medical conditions. The release said benefits of flu vaccination include reduced flu illnesses, doctor visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as the prevention of flu-related hospitalizations. While the vaccine cannot prevent all cases of the flu, it is the most effective way to prevent infection. It's best to get a flu vaccine before the flu begins spreading in the community, the release said. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body. CDC recommends people get a flu vaccine by the end of October. Flu clinics this year are going to be different than in past years due to COVID-19. The first one Sept. 30 is a drive-through clinic by appointment at the Sandusky County Fairgrounds North Street parking lot, the large parking lot used for large fairground events. The clinic is for people ages 10 and older. Other clinics are planned 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 5, 19 and 26 by appointment for people ages 6 months and older at the Sandusky County Public Health Department. To schedule an appointment, call (419) 334-6377. The health department accepts Medicare and Medicaid when cards are taken to the appointment. Some private insurances are accepted including Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medical Mutual, Paramount, Summa Care, Aetna, Health Scope, United Health Care and Cigna. For more information, visit www.scpublichealth.com or find Sandusky County Public Health on Facebook.