Health Department begins flu vaccinations the week of Oct. 17;
Priority groups served first, all others eligible beginning Oct. 24

All clinics are by appointment only; calls now being taken

The DuPage County Health Department will begin flu vaccine clinics for priority groups the week of Oct. 17. Again this year the clinics will be by appointment only. DuPage County residents may now call their nearest Public Health Center for clinic information and appointments.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that only persons who meet the criteria below receive vaccinations beginning the week of Oct. 17.

All persons are eligible for vaccinations after Oct. 24.

The cost for receiving a flu shot this year is $32. The price is higher this year due to the increased cost of vaccine.

Medicare and Medicaid will be accepted.

Pneumonia vaccine is also available for those who need it. The cost for pneumonia vaccine is $45.

The Health Department has flu vaccine for children who are eligible through the Vaccines for Children Program. The cost for this vaccine is $12.

The CDC is recommending that the following priority groups receive flu vaccine first:

• Persons 65 years and older.

• Residents of long-term care facilities.

• Persons 2 years to 64 years with chronic health conditions.

• Children 6 months to 23 months.

• Pregnant women.

• Health care personnel who provide direct patient care.

• Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months.

Call the Public Health Center nearest you for an appointment:

• For Wheaton call (630) 682-7588.

• For Lombard call (630) 588-3905.

• For Addison call (630) 682-7306.

• For Westmont call (630) 588-3923.

“We promote health, prevent illness, and provide quality service”