In October, flu vaccine clinic locations begin to pop up throughout the Greater Phoenix area and throughout Arizona. Here’s what you need to know about the flu and how to find a place to get a flu shot in Phoenix.
October and November are often the best months to get a flu shot. Since peak flu season in Arizona begins in February, you can still get a flu shot in December or January.
Every year in this country, between 5% and 20% of the population contracts the flu. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, in an average year in Arizona, more than 4,000 people are hospitalized with complications from the flu, and about 700 people die from the flu.
People most at risk of developing the flu are:
- people over 65
- children older than 6 months
- pregnant women
- health workers
- people with chronic medical conditions, such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, dialysis patients, respiratory diseases, heart disease, AIDS, and high blood pressure.
- people who live with others at risk for flu-related complications.
This is not an understandable list. Consult your doctor to determine if you are at risk for complications associated with the flu.
There are several simple things everyone can do to minimize the risk of getting or spreading the flu. If you are sick, stay home and stay away from big gatherings, like Christmas parties. Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently throughout the day. Cover your mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough.
Of course, your personal doctor can give you the flu shot, and it will probably be free if you have health insurance. If you work with a large company, your employer may be offering flu vaccine clinics. Pharmacies like Walgreen’s and CVS, and in-store pharmacies like Fry’s, Safeway, and Costco in town generally have flu shot clinics where visitors can get their flu shots during certain hours at specific locations. Community health centers also often offer flu shots.
A great resource to help you find a flu shot clinic in the Phoenix area is Community Information and Referrals.
If you’re not sure about getting a flu shot, these key facts about flu shots should answer your questions.
No matter where you go to get your flu shot, be sure to call first to determine if your insurance coverage is acceptable or not, or if there will be a fee.
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