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The Springfield-Greene County Health Department is offering influenza immunizations at no charge to those 19 and older in Greene County who are underinsured or uninsured.

The department is making the flu vaccine available at select vaccination outreach clinics with no appointment required.

  • Thursday, Oct. 13: 1-3 p.m. at Midtown Library, 397 E. Central St., Springfield (Google Maps location); and 5-7 p.m. at the Library Station, 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, Springfield (Google Maps location).

Experts believe the United States could have a severe flu season this year.

Flu season typically peaks between December and February, so it is recommended adults be vaccinated by the end of October, if possible.

However, a vaccine anytime during the season provides protection.

Flu shot can reduce severity of symptoms

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine, with rare exceptions being people with allergies to any ingredient in a flu vaccine.

A flu shot can reduce the severity of flu symptoms and flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Those who are pregnant should speak with their doctor to decide the best timeline for their flu vaccine.

Parents who want to get their children vaccinated, those with insurance to cover the vaccine and individuals who need a high dose can find flu vaccination opportunities on the Find a Vaccine map at vaccine417.com.    


Steve Pokin

Steve Pokin writes the Pokin Around and The Answer Man columns for the Hauxeda. He also writes about criminal justice issues. He can be reached at spokin@hauxeda.com. His office line is 417-837-3661. More by Steve Pokin