Contact: Lane County Public Health Nursing Supervisor Betsy Meredith, 541-682-4041

Lane County Public Health is gearing up for its annual Community Flu Clinics, which kick off Monday, October 4.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over six months of age receive influenza vaccination this year. This year's seasonal flu vaccine contains the H1N1 antigen as well two other strains.

“Getting a flu shot is an effective prevention step in your fight against catching the flu,” said Betsy Meredith, Lane County Public Health Nursing supervisor. “We want to encourage all eligible community members to protect their health, and the health of those around you, by getting the flu shot.”

All healthcare workers are advised to be vaccinated as well as household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children from birth to up to 5 years of age.

Parents of young children are encouraged to have them vaccinated at their medical provider's office or by appointment at Lane County Public Health.

High risk groups for complications from seasonal flu include anyone over the age of 50, especially those with health problems; residents of long-term care facilities; any person with certain chronic medical conditions; pregnant women; and babies and young children.

Seasonal Flu Shots are $31; Influenza Hi-Dose is $45, and Pneumonia shots are $68.

The Lane County Public Health Flu Line, at 541-682-4181, has more complete information about both adult and children’s seasonal flu immunizations.

Seasonal Flu Clinic Schedule

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, Oct. 4, Wheeler Pavilion (Fairgrounds), 796 West 13th, Eugene
• 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday, Oct. 7, Willamette Activity Center, 47674 School Street, Oakridge
• 9-11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 12, Junction City Community Services Center, 175 W. Seventh Ave., Junction City
• 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 12, Veneta Community Center, 25192, E. Broadway Ave., Veneta
• 9:30-11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 18, Cottage Grove Community Hospital, 1515 Village Dr., Cottage Grove
• 9-11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 2, Campbell Senior Center, 155 High St., Eugene
• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 5, Willamalane Adult Activity Center, 215 W. C Street, Springfield

Public Health is able to bill the Oregon Health Plan and most primary Medicare insurance. Please bring your primary Medicare or Oregon Health Plan insurance information with you to the clinic. Cash, personal check, or VISA/MasterCard is also accepted.

Tips on Staying Well

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
• Wash your hands often to help protect you from germs. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

Amber Fossen

Public Information Officer

Lane County Government

125 E. Eighth Ave.

Eugene, Oregon 97401

541.682.3718

541.359.9143 (cell)