The Louisiana Department of Health is offering free flu vaccines on January 31 at more than 55 Parish Health Units across the state.
Louisiana DOH said that the vaccine will be available to anyone who has not received a vaccine this flu season from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
“Louisiana is experiencing a severe flu season and the flu strain we are seeing now is one that typically causes more severe illness, and results in higher hospitalization rates and deaths,” said Dr. Frank Welch, state immunization medical director. “In more severe seasons, the flu causes approximately 700 deaths and nearly 8,000 hospitalizations each year in Louisiana. We are already on track to meet and possibly exceed these statistics for the 2017/18 flu season.”
The Louisiana DOH said that “community flu clinics that are scheduled for next Wednesday are open to the public, and walk-ups are welcome.”
LDOH asks that those who want a flu shot, wear short or loose-fitting sleeves and bring your private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare card if you have one.
To find the clinic nearest to you, visit http://ldh.la.gov/NoCostFluVaccines.
