After Delay, Oakland County Now Offers Flu Vaccines

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — After a short setback, the Oakland County Health Division will begin its annual flu vaccination program on Monday, Oct. 14. After a previous shipping delay, the Health Division now has an adequate vaccine supply, county health officer Leigh-Anne Stafford said.

The flu vaccine protects against as many as four flu viruses which are most likely to occur this season, according to health officials.

“Protect yourself and loved ones with an annual flu shot,” said Stafford. “Vaccination can reduce the risk of getting the flu and help protect the health of others in the community.”

About the flu shots

Flu shots are available for $24 at both Health Division offices in Pontiac and Southfield. Individuals 65 years and older qualify for a high-dose flu shot, which costs $53. FluMist, the nasal spray flu vaccine, is also available for $30.

Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Pre-payment and registration are not needed at these walk-in clinics.

The Health Division is also holding a community clinic for the public on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy.

Payment options include cash, credit (Visa/Mastercard), Medicare, Medicaid, most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and Blue Care Network, and additional insurances. Attendees should bring picture identification and all insurance cards to the clinic.

The Health Division also participates in the Vaccines for Children Program which offers vaccines at no cost for eligible children up to 18-years-old. No one will be denied access to services due to inability to pay; there is a discounted or sliding fee schedule available, health officials said.

Health Division offices are located her:

• North Oakland Health Center, 1200 N. Telegraph Road, Building 34 East, Pontiac
• South Oakland Health Center, 27725 Greenfield Road, Southfield

For up-to-date information, visit www.oakgov.com/health, follow the Health Division on Facebook and Twitter @publichealthOC, or call the Health Division’s Flu Shot Hotline at 800-434-3358.