Flu season is rapidly approaching, and that means it's time for many to consider getting a flu shot.
Flu season in the U.S. can start as early as October and last as late as May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Flu vaccination is important for people at high risk for serious flu complications as well as those who are in close contact with those at risk, according to the CDC. Individuals with respiratory conditions or other chronic illnesses, people who provide community services, those living in dormitories or other close quarters, and adults 65 and older should consider vaccination essential
Here are a few options for free, or low-cost, flu shots in Gwinnett.
Grayson residents can obtain flu vaccinations from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 10 at City Hall, 475 Grayson Parkway. The Flu Shot Clinic is offering shots for $5 each or a donation of five canned food items. All money and food collected will be donated to the Southeast Gwinnett Co-Op.
Bethesda Park Senior Center will offer free flu shots at a Senior Wellness Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 30 at 225 Bethesda Church Road in Lawrenceville. Pneumonia and shingles vaccinations are also available, with the cost billed through Medicare. The shots are sponsored by Walgreens. The event also includes vendors, health screenings and entertainment. Information: 678-277-0179.
Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett is offering flu shots all season for $20 with no appointment necessary. Location: 3700 Club Drive in Lawrenceville. Information: www.goodsamgwinnett.org or 678-280-6630.
Kroger, Publix, CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid and Target pharmacies all offer no-appointment flu shots. In most cases, there is no co-pay for members of Medicare Part B and most insurance plans. CVS also offers a 20 percent off shopping pass with each flu shot. Walgreens, together with the United Nations Foundation's Shot@Life campaign, provides lifesaving vaccines to children in developing countries when you get your flu shot or other immunization. Target pharmacies offer Pharmacy Rewards and a 5 percent off shopping day coupon.
Covenant Health Pharmacy offers $25 flu shots from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. any day, no appointment necessary, at 1132 Athens Highway, Suite 206, in Grayson. No co-pay with most insurance and Medicare Part B patients. Information: 678-585-4962.
Gwinnett County Health Departments provide free and low-cost flu shots and accept most insurance at the following locations. Call for specifics and for appointment information:
Buford Center -- 2755 Sawnee Ave., 770-614-2401
Lawrenceville Center -- 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 300, 770-339-4283
Norcross Center -- 5030 Georgia Belle Court, 770-638-5700
Lilburn WIC -- 5342 Lawrenceville Highway, Suite A-E, 678-924-1546
Preventive Health -- 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 400, in Lawrenceville, 678-442-6880
Children's Medical Services -- 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 500, in Lawrenceville, 770-339-4270
Gwinnett Environmental -- 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 600, in Lawrenceville, 770-963- 5132
