On Monday and Tuesday, September 15 and 16, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., local residents will be offered the convenience of using the "drive-thru clinic" to get their seasonal flu vaccination at the Macon-Bibb County Health Department, 171 Emery Highway.

Residents who miss the "drive-thru clinic" may walk into the clinic for their flu shot starting Wednesday, September 17th  during regular business hours, which are Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.  The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. 

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the flu shot for everybody age 6 months and older.  It is recommended to get the shot as soon as it is available each year, as it takes about 2 weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in your body and provide protection.

In order to stay healthy and enjoy Mercer University's home football games, as well as the holidays, the Macon-Bibb County Health Department staff share these reminders:

• Get an influenza vaccine each year
• Practice good hand hygiene by rubbing hands for a minimum of 15-20 seconds with antimicrobial hand foam or soap and water
• If you are sick, stay home
• Don't carry a "cold in your pocket" - dispose of tissues after use
• Sneeze and cough into a tissue or paper towel; if you don't have those you can use the crook of your elbow (put that clothing into the wash at night)

Macon-Bibb County Health Department works to protect the health of people and their environment wherever in our community they live, work and play.  Through our services we prevent disease, injury and disability; promote health and well-being; and prepare for and respond to disasters from a health perspective.