Flu shot season getting underway

Published 7:17 am Friday, September 21, 2012

It’s time to ready for flu season.

Flu vaccine will be available at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin beginning Oct. 1. Flu shot clinics have been scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon on Oct. 13 and 20, and from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24. Appointments are required for the Oct. 13 and 20 flu shot clinics and can be made by calling 507-433-8758.

To schedule an appointment for a flu shot outside of these clinic dates, make an appointment by calling 507-433-8758. Those who have an appointment scheduled with their regular provider on or after Oct. 1 can ask to receive the flu vaccine at that time. The flu vaccine is covered by most insurance.

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Other Mayo Clinic Health System location flu shot clinic dates include:

—Grand Meadow Clinic, Oct. 2 from 8 to 10 a.m.

—Adams Clinic, Oct. 10 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

—LeRoy Clinic, Oct. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to noon

—Blooming Prairie Clinic, Oct. 19 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Immunizations will only be given to those 9 years of age and older during these clinics and the flu vaccine nasal spray will not be available. Medicare card and cash payment are accepted at the flu shot clinics in Grand Meadow, Adams, LeRoy and Blooming Prairie locations only. No insurance claims will be filed and no appointments are necessary at these locations.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine unless they have a valid contraindication. Children younger than 9 require two doses of the flu vaccine one month apart, if it’s the first time they’ve been vaccinated.