Health Department to offer free flu shots Oct. 20

DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor

Moore County residents can get this year’s flu shot free next month, with the local health department joining a statewide vaccination effort.

The Moore County Health Department, 251 Majors Blvd., will take part in Fight Flu TN ’26 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20. The free vaccine will be available to anyone 6 months and older who is eligible to receive it.

State Health Commissioner Dr. John Dunn said vaccination remains the best way to lower the risk of getting the flu and can also reduce the chance of severe illness. He said getting vaccinated can help protect others, too, and encouraged Tennesseans to talk with their healthcare provider about whether the vaccine is right for them.

Fight Flu TN is now in its ninth year, with more than 200 locations expected to participate across Tennessee. The annual event gives residents a chance to get vaccinated at no cost while giving local health departments experience handling a larger public health response.

Health officials say the vaccine can help keep people from getting sick and may make the illness less severe for those who still come down with the flu. National estimates from the 2024-25 season credit flu vaccination with preventing about 10 million illnesses and roughly 5 million medical visits, along with an estimated 180,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 deaths.

Some people are more likely to face serious complications from influenza. That includes pregnant women and older adults, as well as infants and people with chronic medical conditions.

Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, sore throat, and a stuffy or runny nose, with cases ranging from mild to severe.

Health officials recommend good handwashing with soap and water and covering coughs and sneezes. People who are sick should stay home when possible, while frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned regularly to help cut down on the spread of germs.

For people who do become sick, antiviral medication may be an option, especially for those at higher risk of complications. Health officials recommend talking with a healthcare provider about treatment and taking medication only as prescribed.

Residents can check the Tennessee Department of Health’s Fight Flu website for other participating sites and their hours.