By José A. Álvarez, County of San Diego Communications Office
Oct. 15, 2020 | 9:44 AM
The County of San Diego is ramping up its flu vaccination efforts to lower the risk of San Diegans getting influenza and the novel coronavirus at the same time and prevent the local healthcare system from being overwhelmed.
Every year, the County sponsors free vaccination clinics throughout the region where you can get a flu shot. Six clinics will take place in October and early November with vaccine available for adults and children ages six months and up.
“The clinics are free and primarily for people with no medical insurance,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “We want everyone to be protected against the flu and its possible complications.”
The upcoming clinics will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at:
Oct. 22
North Central Public Health Center – 5055 Ruffin Rd., San Diego, CA 92123
Oct 24
South Public Health Center – 690 Oxford St., Chula Vista, CA 91911
Oct. 27
North Coastal Public Health Center – 3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92056
Oct, 28
Central Public Health Center VIP Trailer – 3177A Oceanview Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113
Oct. 29
East Public Health Center – 367 N. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020
Nov. 3
North Inland Public Health Center – 640 W. Mission Ave #2, Escondido, CA 92025
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months of age and older get flu shot every year.
The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop, so it’s best to get your vaccine now before influenza starts to spread in the community.
Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications from influenza. They include:
People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and lung disease, even if your symptoms are under control
Pregnant women
People 65 years and older
People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk
In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:
Wash hands thoroughly and often
Use hand sanitizers
Stay away from sick people
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Clean commonly touched surfaces
If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others
The flu vaccine is covered by medical insurance and is also available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies.
People with no healthcare coverage can get vaccinated at a Community Health Center or County public health center throughout the flu season. For a list of locations, visit sdiz.org or call 2-1-1.
José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office.
