Flu Shots Important

With flu season commencing, and no sign of COVID-19 letting up, St. John’s Health says getting a flu shot is more important this year than ever before. St. John’s CEO Paul Beaupré says that there are a number of reasons everyone in the community should get a flu vaccination this year. Vaccination protects individuals against flu, helps providers make care decisions when a patient has “flu-like symptoms,” and reduces hospitalizations at a time when hospitals may be strained, due to COVID. Another important benefit is that communities with high flu vaccination rates may be given priority status for COVID vaccine distribution. On Saturdays throughout October, St. John’s Family Health & Urgent care will be offering drive-up flu shots. Appointments for individuals ages 8 and up are available every 15 minutes, 10:00 am–4:00 pm at Smith’s Plaza.  Appointments may be made at stjohns.health/flushot  Most insurance plans cover flu shots, although a co-payment may be possible, depending on your plan. Medicare Part B covers the high-dose vaccine at 100%.