Flu vaccines available at local clinics

By Sam Waller

The easing of COVID-19 restrictions could have unintended consequences for the upcoming flu season.

While it is still too early to gauge the severity of flu this winter, nurse practitioner Claire Ware of Shackelford County Health Clinic said there is the chance for it to be worse than a year ago.

“We have not seen much flu, just a few sporadic cases,” Ware said. “I am expecting it to be a little bit worse than last year based on everyone being a little bit looser regarding masking and washing hands. People are gathering more, so I think the flu will be more easily spread than last year.”

Shackelford County Health Clinic is already offering flu vaccinations, and ResourceCare will begin administering shots on Oct. 4.

Brandi Green, clinical coordinator at SCHC, said the clinic is recommending appointments for vaccines.

“The appointments can be the same day you call,” Green said. “We just need to have an idea of when you’re coming.”

Appointments for flu shots are available at the Shackelford County Health Clinic from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 to 12:00 noon on Fridays.

Green said most insurance policies will cover the cost of the shots. For the uninsured, shots will be $30 for the regular dose and $65 for the high dose, which is for patients age 65 and over.

Drop-ins are welcome at ResourceCare, which is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Cost of both vaccines at ResourceCare is $35 for those who are uninsured.

For questions regarding the flu vaccine, call ResourceCare at 325-762-2447 or Shackelford County Health Clinic at 325-762-3661.