With the start of flu season quickly approaching, the Chester County Health Department announces details of county-wide flu vaccination clinics, open to the entire community at area schools. The clinics are scheduled from late September through November.

In addition to the flu vaccine, the Health Department will offer COVID-19 vaccines at most community vaccine sites. Registration is required to help protect the health and safety of our community and clinic staff.

Jeanne Franklin, Director of the Chester County Health Department said, “Flu and COVID-19 viruses have many similar symptoms, including cough, chills, fever, body aches, fatigue, and runny or stuffy nose. With so many shared symptoms, it can be challenging to distinguish between the two.

“Becoming sick with the flu can also make people more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, increasing the risk for serious illness,” added Franklin.

The Chester County Health Department recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone aged six months and older

“Influenza is more than just a runny nose and sore throat. It is a serious disease that can lead to missed work or school, hospitalization, and sometimes even death. The best defense we have is getting vaccinated,” noted Franklin.

The Chester County Health Department will have the flu vaccine available for people as young as six months old, and a special high-dose vaccine for seniors. First- and second-dose COVID-19 vaccine appointments are available for individuals 12 years and older.

Health officials note that if you have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19, you can receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same appointment.

“It is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time,” said Franklin.  “For many, our upcoming vaccine clinics are an easy and convenient option to maximize their protection this fall. Whether it is a flu vaccine or COVID-9 vaccine, I thank everyone for choosing to be vaccinated.”

Individuals with private health insurance will not be charged a copay at the Health Department vaccine clinics but should bring their insurance card for billing. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available regardless of insurance status and individuals without health insurance will not pay any out-of-pocket costs.

The Health Department’s clinics will have all necessary safety measures in place to keep staff and the public safe, including symptom screening, social distancing, mask requirements, and disinfection protocols.

With multiple viruses spreading this fall and winter, every bit of protection helps including washing hands, wiping down commonly touched surfaces like keyboards, phones and doorknobs, and staying home when sick.

In the immediate Southern Chester County area, community vaccine clinics dates, times, and locations are:

Unionville High School, Sept. 23, from 3 to 6:30 p.m.
Kennett Middle School, Oct. 7, from 3-6:30 p.m.
Kennett Area YMCA, Nov. 11, from 4-7 p.m.

Other area locations are:

Octorara Senior High School, Sept. 27, from 3-6 p.m.
Avon Grove Intermediate School, Sept. 30, from 3:30-6:30 p.m.,
Owen J. Roberts Middle School, Oct. 4, from 3-6 p.m.