Contact:
Gretchen Smith
Public Information Officer
Florida Department of Health in Flagler County
gretchen.smith@flhealth.gov

Bunnell, Fla. - The Flagler County Health Department is urging residents to contact their healthcare provider or pharmacy to get vaccinated against the flu as soon as possible. Once vaccinated, it takes about two weeks to offer protection.

Getting the flu shot each year is important but reducing illness and hospitalization from flu is even more critical this year to protect frontline health care workers and hospital systems that will continue to care for people with COVID-19 and other illnesses. Also, having the flu and COVID-19 at the same time could lead to a negative outcome.

The flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses, but until there is a steady vaccine supply against COVID-19, the way to help prevent these two viruses from circulating at the same time is to get your flu vaccine now.

Starting Monday, September 28, the health department will be providing free flu shots to people when they are tested for COVID-19. This will only be offered at:

Flagler County Fairgrounds Cattleman's Hall
150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell
Monday through Thursday from 9 to 11:45AM and from 4 to 5:45PM

Appointments are required and can be made by calling 386-437-7350 ext. 0, weekdays between 8 AM and 4:30PM.

The health department also reminds resident that there will be less spread of the flu and COVID-19 if everyone continues to:

• Stay home if you're sick
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wear a face covering when around others or if social distancing isn't possible
• Avoid crowds or socials gatherings of more than 10 people

Lives are saved when less virus is circulating.

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About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

For information about the local health department, go to flagler.floridahealth.gov, call 386-437-7350, or visit 301 Dr. Carter Blvd. in Bunnell.