As flu season approaches, the Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District is encouraging residents to protect themselves and their families by getting an annual flu vaccine.
Health officials emphasize that receiving a flu shot each year is the most effective way to prevent influenza and the potentially serious complications that can come with it. The vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age and older.
“Getting vaccinated doesn’t just protect you—it also helps protect those around you, especially vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems,” the department stated.
The flu vaccine is available at no cost through most health coverage plans. Acceptable forms of payment for those without coverage include cash, credit or debit card, Medicare, Medicaid, and a variety of insurance providers such as Aetna, Ambetter, BlueCross BlueShield/Anthem, Cigna (excluding Medicare), and United Healthcare SHBP.
Local health departments across Northwest Georgia are now offering flu shots. Residents are encouraged to call their local office for details on clinic hours and scheduling.
For contact information for all ten Northwest Georgia county health departments — Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Paulding, Polk, and Walker — visit nwgapublichealth.org.
