GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. – It’s unknown what kind of impact COVID-19 will have on the flu season, so health officials say getting vaccinated against the flu this year is more important than ever. That’s why the Glynn County Health Department will hold drive-thru flu vaccination clinics from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Oct. 8 and 15. Both will take place at the health department, located at 2747 Fourth Street, and no appointment is necessary. Flu vaccinations are also available at the health department by appointment during regular hours. Everyone entering the health department over age 2 will be screened for COVID-19 and must wear a face mask.

With flu season fast approaching, doctors want to make sure children are vaccinated, especially since we’re also dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. If your little ones are learning remotely, you might think a flu shot isn’t necessary this year — but that’s not the case. “Just because your child is learning remotely doesn’t mean influenza is moving remotely. Esper said flu season is inevitable but he hopes it won’t be as bad — mainly because people are already following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks due to the coronavirus. As for how effective this year’s flu shot will be, he said only time will tell, but regardless, it’s still better to have some protection than none at all.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Getting a flu or pneumonia vaccine can help in the fight against the coronavirus, according to a Northeast Florida infectious disease doctor. “We know that the flu vaccine decreases influenza-related medical visits by 2.3 million per year,” said Dr. Mohammed Reza, an infectious disease specialist. The flu season begins in October and November and runs through March. “That vaccine to get right now is a good idea because it will give your protection,” Reza said. The CDC recommends all children younger than 2 years old and all adults 65 and older receive a pneumococcal vaccine.