More than 70 get flu shots on county's first day

Turnout for the first day of flu shots offered by Yuma County was a “steady” one.

Tuesday was the first day county workers gave the shots, and just before 4 p.m., they'd given out about 73, said Becky Brooks, director of health services.

The Yuma County Health Department already has received about 1,000 doses of the planned total 5,000, she said.

This year, the seasonal flu shot includes the H1N1 vaccine — something that was separate last year, due to the timing of the novel flu strain.

Brooks said this year, the start to the flu season is definitely “calmer.”

And now that the seasonal flu season has already started, she said it's a great time for people to go ahead and get the shot.

This year, vaccine clinics will be held at the health department, 2200 W. 28th St., as well as various locations throughout the county.

In addition, many private physicians, local pharmacies and other locations are already offering the vaccine.

Tuesday, Ana Robles with the Yuma County Health Department received her vaccination. Robles said it went quickly, with “just a little pinch.”

The Yuma Sun previously reported that seasonal flu vaccinations will be available for all individuals 6 months of age and older. The cost of the flu vaccination will be $25 for individuals 19 years of age and older and $10 for individuals 18 years of age and younger.

According to a previous news release from Yuma County, “If you have Medicare Part B or AHCCCS, bring your card and a photo ID with current address.

“No one will be turned away for inability to pay.”

Brooks said the same mantra from last year still applies, and they encourage everyone to:

• Wash your hands.

• Cover your cough and/or sneeze.

• Stay home when you're sick.

• Get the flu shot.

For additional information from the flu information hot line, call 373-1025 or the immunization department at 317-4559.

Stephanie A. Wilken can be reached at swilken@yumasun.com or 539-6857.

Tuesday

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be no vaccinations 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.

Yuma County Health Department

2200 W. 28th St.

Yuma

Wednesday

2nd, 4th and 5th Wednesdays ONLY

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be no vaccinations 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.

Yuma County Health Department

2200 W. 28th St.

Yuma

Thursday

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be no vaccinations 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.

Yuma County Health Department

2200 W. 28th St.

Yuma

Friday

Wellton

2nd Friday of the month

9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Wellton Head Start

29126 San Jose Ave

Wellton

Dateland

4th Tuesday of the month

10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Dateland Elementary School

1300 S. Avenue 64E

Dateland

San Luis

1st and 3rd Wednesday of the Month

9 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.

Fernando Padilla Community Center

800 E. Juan Sanchez Blvd.

San Luis

— Source: Yuma County Public Health Services District