Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Department of Health will begin offering free flu vaccines at community clinics across the state starting Monday, September 21, giving residents in all 75 counties an opportunity to get vaccinated without an appointment.
The clinics are part of the state’s effort to make flu vaccination easier to access as the new flu season approaches. A schedule showing clinic dates and locations across Arkansas is available through the Arkansas Department of Health.
Everyone age 6 months and older is encouraged to receive a flu vaccine each year. People attending one of the community clinics do not need to make an appointment in advance.
Vaccines will be provided at no charge. The health department asks people to bring their insurance cards with them, but having insurance is not required. Residents who do not have insurance, or whose insurance does not cover flu shots, can still receive the vaccine for free.
“Getting your flu vaccine is a simple step you can take to protect yourself and the people around you,” Dr. Sarah Labuda, ADH Medical Director for Immunizations, said. “By offering vaccines at community clinics across the state, we try to make it as easy as possible for Arkansans to get vaccinated and stay healthy this flu season.”
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Health officials say influenza spreads easily from person to person. The virus can be passed along when someone who is sick coughs, sneezes or talks. People who become infected often begin experiencing symptoms about two days after being exposed.
Common flu symptoms include fever, coughing, a sore throat, a runny nose, muscle or body aches, tiredness and headaches. While many people recover from the illness, flu can be more serious for certain groups.
The health department especially encourages vaccination for people who have a greater risk of developing serious complications. That includes pregnant women, adults age 65 and older, young children and people living with long-term health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Caregivers of people in these higher-risk groups are also encouraged to get vaccinated. Health officials say vaccination can provide protection for individuals while also helping reduce the chance of passing the virus to family members, friends and others who may be more vulnerable.
The department also reminds residents that everyday habits can help limit the spread of influenza. Regular handwashing is one useful way to reduce the chances of spreading germs, particularly during flu season.
Still, health officials say vaccination remains the best protection against the flu.
Getting a flu shot does not cause someone to develop influenza. Some people may experience mild soreness or aches after vaccination, but those effects generally go away on their own.
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Even when a vaccinated person becomes infected with the flu, the vaccine can help reduce the severity of the illness, according to the health department.
Arkansans who have questions about the flu vaccine or whether they should receive one are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider.
With clinics scheduled throughout the state beginning September 21, the Arkansas Department of Health is encouraging residents to check the schedule for their county and take advantage of the free vaccination opportunities before flu activity increases.
