DCHHS Offers Free Flu Vaccine Beginning Nov. 18

Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) begins Wednesday, Nov. 18 offering the seasonal flu vaccine for children and adults at no cost. The flu vaccine is free for all uninsured and low income Dallas County residents.

“To date, we have not received any reports of flu-related deaths, but we know the virus is circulating in the community,” said Zachary Thompson, DCHHS director. “More than fifty individuals have tested positive for the flu and at least seven have been hospitalized.”

There were 3 pediatric and 55 adult flu-related deaths in Dallas County during the 2013-14 flu season, and 19 adult deaths last season.

DCHHS Medical Director/Health Authority Dr. Christopher Perkins encourages everyone to get the flu vaccine once a year.

“The flu vaccine is the best form of protection against the flu virus, which is why we are encouraging everyone to get the vaccine if they haven’t already,” Dr. Perkins said.

Individuals should also practice proper hand washing and other flu prevention methods, Dr. Perkins added. Flu materials are posted on the DCHHS website.

The flu vaccine DCHHS provides is an all-in-one vaccine that protects against multiple flu strains including the H1N1 virus.

The adult vaccine is given in the adult immunization clinic on the first floor at the DCHHS building located at 2377 N. Stemmons Frwy. in Dallas. The children’s vaccine is available at all DCHHS immunization clinics. Clinic hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Appointments aren’t necessary. For more information call 214-819-2162.