Health Division encourages residents to get flu vaccine

Oakland County Health Division began its annual flu vaccination program on Tuesday, Oct. 3, County Executive L. Brooks Patterson announced. The flu vaccine protects against as many as four flu viruses which are most likely to occur this season.

"Our priority is always the health of our residents, especially during flu season," Patterson said. "I urge everyone who is able to take the necessary precautions against the flu including getting vaccinated."

Flu shots are available for $25 at both Health Division offices in Pontiac and Southfield. Individuals 65 years and older qualify for a high-dose flu shot, which costs $47. Clinic hours are noon to 8 p.m. on Mondays and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Pre-payment and registration are not available at these walk-in clinics.

"Get a flu shot every year to protect yourself and loved ones," said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County. "Flu and flu-related illnesses can take the lives of up to 56,000 Americans a year. The flu shot reduces the risk of getting the flu and protects the community around you."

The Health Division will also hold two community clinics on the following dates:

- Wednesday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy.

- Tuesday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Costick Center, 28600 11 Mile Road, Farmington Hills.

Community outreach clinics are walk-in only. Pre-payment and registration are not available.

Payment options include cash, credit (American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa), Medicare, Medicaid, and some insurance. Credit card fees apply. Please bring picture identification and all insurance cards to the clinic. Oakland County Health Division participates in the Vaccines for Children Program. No one will be denied access to services due to inability to pay; there is a discounted/sliding fee schedule available.

Health Division offices are located at the following addresses:

- North Oakland Health Center, 1200 N. Telegraph Road, Building 34 East, Pontiac.

- South Oakland Health Center, 27725 Greenfield Road, Southfield.

For up-to-date information, visit www.oakgov.com/health, follow the Health Division on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest @publichealthOC, or call the Health Division's Flu Shot Hotline at 800-434-3358. Nurse on Call is also available to answer questions at 800-848-5533.

Published: Mon, Oct 09, 2017