Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) Immunization Clinic is going mobile in an effort to get annual flu vaccines to the local community.  In addition to offering annual flu vaccines to everyone 6 months and older at the Acworth, Douglasville, East Cobb and Marietta Public Health Center locations, CDPH is also offering them for local businesses and community events for groups of 20 or more people.

“We are committed to ensuring everyone is properly protected, so we’re encouraging community members to walk in to one of our many clinic locations.  However, we’re also ready and willing to come to any group in Cobb or Douglas county that has 20 or more people who’d like to get immunized,” said Karen Thomas, District Immunization Director, Cobb & Douglas Public Health.

Getting Your Shot

Appointments are not required to receive the flu vaccine and the cost is $25. Children without health insurance and children with Medicaid or PeachCare are eligible to receive a state-supplied vaccine. CDPH is able to bill Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Meritain, TRICARE Standard, Humana, Coventry and First Health Insurances with no co-pay for the vaccine. Cash, Visa and MasterCard will also be accepted.

Local businesses and community events for groups of 20 or more people who are interested in having flu vaccines administered should call (770) 514-2307.

Recommendations for Senior Patients

In addition to the flu vaccine, CDPH also recommends pneumonia shots for persons over 65 years old, or anyone with a chronic illness or weakened immune system. Medicare pays for the flu and pneumonia vaccines. The shingles vaccine is also recommended for anyone over 60 years of age. While you are getting your flu shot, be sure to ask your provider if you are up to date on your Tetanus vaccinations.

In addition to vaccination, individuals can also reduce the risk of getting the flu by following a few simple steps:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleanser
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
  • Stay home when you are sick and keep sick children home
  • Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then put used tissues in the trash and wash your hands. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve

“Whether people walk in or take advantage of our mobile immunization team, we want remind individuals that the flu vaccine provides the best protection against the flu,” said Thomas.

For more information, contact Cobb & Douglas Public Health at (770) 514-2300 or visit cobbanddouglaspublicheatlh.org.