FRESNO COUNTY – Influenza season is here and the Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) is offering free flu vaccinations at clinics throughout the county.
According to a Sept. 20 FCDPH press release, the 2023-24 flu vaccine protects against most flu viruses. While it cannot prevent every case of the flu, getting the annual flu vaccine is the best defense against the disease and the potential serious complications that can result from it, such as pneumonia and death.
After receiving the flu vaccine, it takes about two weeks for protection to develop. The department recommends children aged six months to 8 years old – who have received one vaccine in their lifetime – should receive two doses this season four weeks apart.
FCDPH also recommends anyone six months and older get vaccinated. Anyone who requires an updated COVID vaccine may get one at the same time they receive their flu vaccine, given that the COVID booster is offered by their medical provider.
The county will offer free flu shots at 15 locations in the county, including locations in local areas such as:
- Selma City Hall – Oct. 5 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sanger Community Center – Oct. 19 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Reedley Community Center – Oct. 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Kingsburg Senior Center – Nov. 9 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
According to FCDPH, from Oct. 2, 2022 through May. 7 of this year, in Fresno County there were zero flu-related deaths in the 0-17 age group. There were three deaths in the 18-64 age group and five deaths in the 65 and older age group.
For more information on the flu and vaccinations, visit www.fcdph.org/noflu.
