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In preparation for this year’s flu season, the Franklin County Commissioners approved $150,000 to purchase 3,000 additional vaccines and to support a joint public health and awareness campaign undertaken by the Franklin County Board of Health and Columbus Public Health Department to combat the spread and infection of the flu.
Commission President Mary Jo Kilroy reminded all Franklin County residents to “get a flu shot. Getting a flu shot is the single best way to protect yourself and your family.”
In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications.
The Franklin County Board of Health is offering flu shot clinics to adults 18 years of age and older. The cost for flu shots is $25 for those who are not Medicare, Medicaid, MediGold or Anthem Senior Advantage eligible. Pregnant women must bring a prescription to the clinic.
“Getting vaccinated against the flu is important to stay healthy this flu season and because of funding made possible by the County Commissioners, no one will be turned away because of an inability to pay,” said Franklin County Health Commissioner Susan Tilgner.
County funds will vaccinate up to 3,000 people. Priority will be placed on those most at risk of experiencing complications from the flu: children, elderly and those caring for or in contact with those most at risk. All vaccines purchased under this contract will be thimerosal-free.
“I am pleased that more and more people are taking responsibility for preventative health care actions, and that they are seeking inoculations from medical providers they trust for safe, timely, and effective medical care,” said Commissioner Paula Brooks. “As we enter flu season, we must also remember that hand washing effectively prevents the spread of disease.”
“I encourage all of our residents, especially those most at risk, to get vaccinated,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “Let’s keep Franklin County healthy.”
For questions about childhood flu vaccine and clinic locations, contact the Franklin County Board of Health at 614-462-3160. For information on other flu shot clinics in the area, visit www.vaccine4me.com or call the Flu Hotline at 614-437-2900.
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