Doctors are encouraging everyone over the age of six months to get a flu shot this year. They say 2020 is an extremely important year to get vaccinated because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Someone who contracts flu and COVID at the same time faces a greater risk of a serious illness.
To help address these concerns, Ascension and the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation are giving free flu shots this month at five West and Middle Tennessee locations. They’ll be given while you are in your car, and no appointment is needed.
Two of the five clinics are here in Middle Tennessee, and include a location nearby in Murfreesboro. That flu shot clinic will take place on Saturday, November 14, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Saint Louise Oak Creek Clinic, at 1015 North Highland Avenue, in Murfreesboro.
The other midstate clinic takes place a week earlier, this Saturday, at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Antioch Clinic, 3754 Murfreesboro Pike, in Nashville.
Masks and social distancing will be required. Adults and older children should wear clothing that leaves the upper arm easily accessed. Younger children will receive the shot in the hip, so short pants are recommended.
Doctors also recommend avoiding gathering with persons indoors, except those who live in your household. Evidence now indicates the coronavirus is more likely to spread when people are in close quarters for an extended period of time, such as Thanksgiving dinner. Many doctors are recommending people avoid such gatherings this year.
Those at a higher risk of developing serious complications if they get sick include people older than 65, people with certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes or heart issues, pregnant women, and young children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months of age or older get a flu vaccine every year. Find more details about the flu shot clinics at www.bettertennessee.com/events.