By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-941541.mp3
Dallas, TX – Dallas County is giving FREE flu shots until supplies run out. KERA's BJ Austin has the update.
The FREE flu shots for children and adults are available starting today at Dallas County Health and Human Services on Stemmons Freeway; and at the five other county clinics: North Buckner; East Jefferson; West Northwest Highway; South Nursery Road, and Valwood Parkway.
Last year, limited supply of the new H1N1 flu vaccine was doled out on a priority basis at the start of the swine flu outbreak. Dallas County reported nearly two dozen H1N1 deaths Later, much of the "seasonal" flu vaccine went unused. Health Department Director Zack Thompson says there have not been any cases of H1N1 reported this flu season. He says that's one reason people aren't rushing to get the shots.
Thompson: We realize across the nation there's been a lack of interest in getting the flu vaccine. So, this is our effort to really encourage Dallas County residents to come in by offering the free flu vaccine.
It protects against H1N1, as well as Types A and B. Thompson says the incidence of flu is increasing, and a lot of people will likely get it as an unwelcome "gift" this holiday season.
Thompson: As we begin the holiday and people begin to interact with family members from various parts of the country, you start to see the flu cases go up as we go into the January and February months.
Thompson says the free flu shots are available to everyone, no restrictions, until the supply runs out.
Tarrant County Public Health Medical Director, Dr. Sandra Parker says a flu shot is the only protection against the seasonal flu, and it should be an annual ritual. Flu shots at Tarrant County clinics are 20 dollars cash - or covered by Medicare and Medicaid.