In October flu shot clinic locations start to spring up all over the Greater Phoenix area and throughout Arizona. Here is what you need to know about the flu, and how to find a place to get a flu shot in Phoenix.
October and November are typically the best months in which to get a flu shot. Since peak flu season in Arizona starts in February, you can still get a flu shot in December or January.
Every year in this country between 5% and 20% of the population gets the flu, and every year more than 30,000 people die from the flu or its complications. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, in 2004 nearly 600 people in Maricopa County went to a hospital emergency room for flu-related illness.
The people who are most at risk of developing the flu are:
- people that are 65 or older
- children between 6 months old and 2 years old
- health care workers
- people with chronic medical conditions, like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, dialysis patients, respiratory diseases, heart disease, AIDS, and high blood pressure.
- people who live with others who are at risk for flu-related complications.
There are several simple things that everyone can do to minimize the risk of getting and/or spreading the flu. If you are sick, stay at home and stay away from large gatherings, like holiday parties. Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently during the day. Cover your mouth with a disposable tissue when you sneeze or cough.
Of course, your personal physician can administer the flu shot for you. If you work with a large company, your employer may be offering flu shot clinics. Pharmacies like Walgreen's, CVS, and Osco, and pharmacies within stores like Fry's, Safeway, and Costco around town usually have flu shot clinics where walk-ins can get a flu shot during certain hours at specified locations.
Here are two resources to help you to find a flu shot clinic in the Phoenix area:
Flu Shot Locator | Community Information and Referral
If you are unsure about getting a flu shot, these key facts about flu vaccines should answer your questions.
No matter where you go for your flu shot, make sure you call first to determine whether or not your insurance coverage is acceptable there or if there will be a fee.
