NASHVILLE - With influenza now widespread in Tennessee, state Health Commissioner Lisa Piercy says flu vaccine is being offered at no charge at the state's 95 counties health department clinics while supplies last.
"I urge anyone who has not received a flu shot this flu season to get one as soon as possible," Dr. Piercey. "It's extremely important for young children, the elderly and pregnant women to receive a flu vaccine because they are at the most serious risk for illness or death from influenza."
Vaccine supplies vary from county to county, so officials are recommending residents contact their local health department for information on getting a flu vaccine.
To find a county health department near you, visit www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/localdepartments.html.
In addition to health department clinics run by TDH across the state, free flu vaccine is also available now at the Shelby County Health Department in Memphis and the Metro Public Health Department in Nashville.
Even after getting the flu vaccine, officials say it's important to remember to wash your hands with soapy water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Cover coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or tissue to help prevent the spread of illness. And anyone who is sick should stay home to recover in order to help prevent spreading illness to co-workers, friends and others, health officials recommend.
To learn more about preventing seasonal flu, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/index.html.
