Kaiser Offering Flu Shots at Walk-In Clinics

Starting Saturday, Kaiser Permanente will offer flu vaccines at walk-in clinics across the South Bay.

"The flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, even lead to death,'' said Dr. Kalvin Yu of Kaiser's Department of Infectious Diseases.

"While it can be serious even in people who are otherwise healthy, it can be especially dangerous for children, pregnant women and older adults. This is why we urge everyone 6 months of age and older to get a flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available in their area.''

The first case of H1N1 flu this season was reported in August at Kaiser's West Los Angeles medical center.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, in the 2012-2013 flu season, 161 flu-related pediatric deaths occurred.

This year's flu shot will protect against the H1N1 flu virus and other flu viruses expected to be making the rounds this fall and winter. A list of clinic locations and times is posted at www.kp.org/flu.

Here's a listing of walk-in clinics in the South Bay and nearby:

• Bellflower Medical Offices, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 9400 E. Rosecrans Ave.
• Normandie North Medical Offices, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 25965 S. Normandie Ave.
• Carson Medical Offices, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 18600 S. Figueroa St.
• Playa Vista Medical Offices, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 5620 Mesmer Ave.