While the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, it has been shown to reduce the risk of flu-related illness, hospitalization and death.
Seasonal flu vaccinations are available through private health providers and at retail locations throughout the community. The County-sponsored seasonal flu vaccination clinics will include immunizations for adults and children ages six months and older. The County will offer flu shots only. A high-dose flu vaccine for those 65 and older will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“I encourage everyone to get their flu shot this season,” said County Executive Elrich. “It is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and those around you. A flu shot can make all the difference in preventing serious illness, especially for those at higher risk of complications, like older adults or people with underlying health conditions. Those who should particularly consider getting the flu vaccine include older adults, health care workers, household members of infants younger than six months and individuals with chronic illnesses."
The schedule for County-operated clinics:
- Wednesday, Oct. 23. 2-6 p.m. Universities at Shady Grove 9630 Gudelsky Drive, Building II, Rockville. Make an appointment for anyone six months of age and older.
The clinics are a partnership between Montgomery County Health and Human Services and the University of Maryland System.
Additional flu clinics for anyone six months and older include:
- Saturday, Oct. 19. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Global Health Community Health Fair Clifton Baptist Church 8818 Piney Branch Road, Silver Spring. Make an appointment for anyone six months and older.
- Saturday, Nov. 3. 10 a.m-2 p.m. Sri Lanka Community Buddhist Temple 2600 Elmont St., Silver Spring. Make an appointment for anyone six months of age and older.
- Monday, Nov. 4. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dennis Avenue Health Center 2000 Dennis Ave., Silver Spring. Make an appointment for anyone six months of age and older.
- Saturday, Nov. 9. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dennis Avenue Health Center 2000 Dennis Ave., Silver Spring. Make an appointment for anyone six months of age and older.
- Saturday, Nov. 16. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dennis Avenue Health Center 2000 Dennis Ave., Silver Spring. Make an appointment for anyone six months of age and older.
The best way to prevent seasonal flu is by getting vaccinated each year, In addition, good health habits can help reduce the spread of germs and prevent illnesses like the flu. These habits include:
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then discard the tissue. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating. Alcohol hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol) will help if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, as germs can easily enter the body through these areas.
- Stay away from people who are sick, and if you are sick, keep your distance to prevent spreading illness to others.
- Monitor yourself and your family for symptoms of fever, which may include chills, headache, sore throat, cough, body aches, vomiting or diarrhea.
- If you are feeling unwell, stay home from work, school and other public places until you are healthy again.
For more information, visit the flu-area of the County’s website.