Free County Flu Clinics Begin Saturday

Okay, so you didn't get sick with the flu last year. Good for you.

Don't get cocky.

That's the message from both federal and local health officials as this year's influenza season gets underway.

Though last year's flu season was the mildest on record, two new strains have appeared this year. Though young children and the elderly are most at risk, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone six months or older get a flu shot.

Starting Saturday, Montgomery County is offering several free flu shot clinics at locations around the county. The flu shots are free to county residents and are expected to offer protection against the currently circulating strains of the influenza virus.

Below are the clinic dates and locations:

• Saturday, Sept. 29, Upper Perkiomen High School, 2 Walt Road, Pennsburg

• Thursday, Oct. 4, Norristown Public Library, 1001 Powell St., Norristown

• Thursday, Oct. 11, Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen

• Saturday, Oct. 13, Montgomery County Community College, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell (drive-thru clinic, no walk up flu shots given)

• Tuesday, Oct. 16, Upper Merion Township Building, 175 West Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia

• Saturday, Oct. 20, Abington Junior High School, 2056 Susquehanna Road, Abington

• Friday, Oct. 26, Sunnybrook Ballroom, 50 Sunnybrook Road, Pottstown

All clinics will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., except the clinic at the Upper Merion site, which will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Residents who are Medicare eligible should bring their Medicare card.

If you are allergic to eggs or have previously had an adverse reaction to a flu vaccine, consult with your physician before attending one of the clinics.

For more information about the flu vaccine or flu clinics contact the Montgomery County Health Department at 610-278-5145.