Flu Vaccine Clinics Happening at Kirby Medical Center

Achoo! As we approach the fall season with falling leaves and cooler weather, we are also coming upon the beginning of flu season. Kirby Medical Center is offering community flu clinics throughout the month of October. Anyone age 3 and over is able to receive the vaccines at these clinics.

All of the following clinic dates will take place in the Kirby Medical Center Community Outreach Room located at 1000 Medical Center Drive, Monticello, IL 61856.

Tuesday October 1st: 7am – 12pm

Thursday October 3rd: 12pm – 6pm

Thursday October 17th: 12pm – 7pm

If you are feeling unsure about receiving a flu vaccine, here are four key facts about flu vaccines that may help your understanding of both their safety and importance.

1. Flu vaccines are extremely safe.
   • Flu vaccines have undergone rigorous studies and have been safely given to millions of people in the United States for 50 years.
   • You cannot get the flu from vaccines; flu shots use either inactive viruses or a protein from the flu virus to protect you.

2. Flu vaccines save lives.
   • Flu vaccines help prevent severe outcomes from the flu, such as hospital stays and deaths.
   • While no flu vaccine prevents 100% of infections, people who have been vaccinated and still contract the flu typically have a less severe illness.

3. You need a new flu vaccination every year.
   • The protection from the vaccine fades over time and flu viruses are constantly changing, so it is best to stay up to date with a new vaccine to give you the best chance of avoiding it and any of its changes.

4. You should aim to be vaccinated by the end of October – but later is better than never.
   • Flu season is October through May. Vaccines can still be effective if received through February.

Hope to see you in October!