SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn. — Free flu shots were being given Tuesday, November 9 during a special statewide "FightFluTN2021" vaccination event.
The Shelby County Health Department made vaccinations available at no cost at eight locations.
A special drive-thru vaccination clinic was held between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. at Southwest Tennessee Community College’s Gill Campus, at 3833 Mountain Terrace. No appointment is needed.
Walk-in clinic locations:
- Cawthon Public Health Clinic - 1000 Haynes, 38114
- Collierville Public Health Clinic - 167 Washington St., 38017
- Hickory Hill Public Health Clinic - 6590 Kirby Center Cove, 38118
- Immunization Clinic - 814 Jefferson, 38105
- Millington Public Health Clinic - 8225 Highway 51 North, 38053
- Shelby Crossing Public Health Clinic - 1826 Sycamore View Road
- Southland Mall Public Health Clinic - 1287 Southland Mall, 38116
This is part of the 'Fight Flu' Tennessee initiative where they hold vaccine events in every county in the state to increase the number of people vaccinated against influenza across the state.
Officials said it’s important for people to protect themselves from the flu, as well as COVID-19, as they get ready to gather for the holidays.
Everyone ages six months and older are encouraged to get the flu vaccine, including babies and young children.
The flu vaccine contains an inactive virus, so it can't cause flu illness. Side effects from the vaccination may include soreness at the injection site, low grade fever, and body aches, but, are usually short-term.
The Shelby County Health Department also suggests to following to slow the spread of flu:
- If you are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home.
- Cover your nose and mouth with tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
For more information about flu in Shelby County, click here.