SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – San Diego County is working to make it easier for San Diegans to get flu shots, which health officials say is especially important this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.
On Thursday, local leaders kicked off efforts to promote flu vaccinations. Over the course of the next few weeks, they will be hosting pop-up clinics across the county where people can get free flu shots.
The pop-up clinics are designed for those who don’t have insurance or those who can’t get the vaccine from their health care provider or pharmacy.
Valentina Christiansen came to one of the clinics to get flu shots for her family. She said, “I think it’s great because I tried to go through our health plan and that’s over a month out, and we wanted to get it sooner. We heard about the opportunity and we’re excited to be able to do that.”
Dr. Denise Foster, chief nursing officer for the county, said getting the flu vaccine can also help in the battle against the coronavirus. Keeping flu patients out of the hospital frees up beds and resources for those fighting COVID-19.
“The flu vaccine can prevent the flu and prevent people from seeking health care services that might be needed right now connected to the pandemic,” Foster said.
Foster added there are more people that have gotten the flu vaccine this year in comparison to this same time last year. They’re hoping this trend continues.
Free flu shot clinics will take place on specific dates at these locations:
- Saturday, Oct. 24 at South Public Health Center, 690 Oxford Street, Chula Vista
- Tuesday, Oct. 27 at North Coastal Public Health Center, 3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Oceanside
- Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Central Public Health Center VIP Trailer, 3177A Oceanview Blvd
- Thursday, Oct. 29 at East Public Health Center, 367 N. Magnolia Avenue, El Cajon
- Tuesday, November 3 at North Inland Public Health Center, 640 W. Mission Ave #2, Escondido
