As a sharp spike in cases of the flu continues, the Galveston County Health District (GCHD) has scheduled several additional no-cost flu shot clinics for the week of January 2, 2018.
Flu vaccines will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis at the following locations. Priority for the limited supply will be given to people without insurance and those who can not afford the shot.
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GCHD
Immunization Clinic
9850 Emmett F. Lowry Expy.
Suite B-104, Texas City
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GCHD
WIC Clinic
2401 Termini St.
Dickinson
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Hitchcock Chamber of Commerce
8300 Hwy 6 Hitchcock
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Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018
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8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
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Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018
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8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018
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8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Friday, Jan. 5, 2018
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8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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So far this flu season, 2,126 confirmed cases of the flu have been reported to GCHD, compared to just 185 during the same period last season. Although the flu is not a condition healthcare providers are required to report to their local health department, reported cases are a good indication of the overall trend.
“Our concern about this sharp spike in flu cases continues to grow,” said Dr. Philip Keiser, Galveston County Local Health Authority. “There are many months of flu season yet to come and it’s not too late to get the shot.”
“We want to make it as convenient as possible for people to get this important vaccination and that’s why we’re continuing to offer these no-cost flu shot clinics,” said Kathy Barroso, GCHD CEO.
People 6-months and older should be vaccinated for the flu. Vaccination is especially important for certain high-risk groups. People 65 and older, pregnant women, young children and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk for serious complications or even death if they get the flu.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. People with a combination of these symptoms should promptly see their medical provider.
In addition to vaccination, people should help stop the spread of the flu and other illness by covering all coughs and sneezes, washing their hands frequently, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces and staying at home when sick.
“Flu can be fatal for the very young and old, especially for those with compromised immune systems,” Dr. Keiser continued. “That’s why it’s so important for everyone to get vaccinated.”
While flu spreads every year, the timing, severity, and length of the season varies from one year to another. Flu outbreaks typically happen as early as October and can last as late as May.
For more information on the flu, symptoms and prevention, visit www.gchdorg/flu.
