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Free flu shots have been scheduled at Greer sites courtesy of Greer Memorial Hospital beginning Saturday at the 10th Annual Benson OctoberFAST at Greer First Baptist.
“One of the best ways to keep yourself and your family healthy is to schedule a flu shot,” said Sue Boeker, a GHS registered nurse and infection prevention specialist. “The shot has a proven track record in keeping people healthier during flu season and it’s especially important for those diagnosed with chronic diseases, including asthma, diabetes and lung disease to be vaccinated.”
Registration is not required for the clinics and shots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.
The GHS clinics are only for adults, but parents should schedule an appointment for children at least six months old with a pediatrician.
Greer Memorial Hospital’s clinics are scheduled for:
• Saturday, Oct. 1—Noon-2 p.m., at Greer First Baptist Church
The 10th Annual Benson OctoberFAST benefitting Greer Community Ministries will be part of the activities at Greer First Baptist. Country singer and songwriter John Anderson and New River Band will perform in a free concert.
• Tuesday, Oct. 11– 4-6 p.m., at Greer Memorial Hospital
• Tuesday, Oct. 18– 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Mountain Creek Church
• Monday, Oct. 24 – 4 p.m.-6 p.m., at Greer Memorial Hospital
• Tuesday, Oct. 25 – 7-9 a.m., at Eastside YMCA
• Wednesday, Oct. 26 – 4-7 p.m., at Washington Baptist Church
• Thursday, Oct. 27 – 4-6 p.m., at Eastside YMCA
Hillcrest Memorial Hospital will host a drive-thru flu shot clinic Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 5-6:30 p.m. in front of the hospital. Laurens County Memorial Hospital will provide flu shots Thursday, Oct. 20 from 5-6:30 p.m.
Besides those diagnosed with chronic diseases, pregnant women and people age 65 and older are at a higher risk of being infected and should make the vaccinations a top priority.
Other steps to reduce illness this cold and flu season include:
• Washing hands often and keep them away from your face
• Avoid close contact with people who have flu symptoms
• Prevent the spread of illness to others by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• If you’re sick, stay home from work or school at least 24 hours after your fever breaks.
“The flu shot is the best preventive measure to avoid getting the virus,” Boeker said. “The more people who are vaccinated, the better our community is protected from the flu.”
Visit http://www.ghs.org/flu to learn more about protecting yourself from the flu and frequently asked questions.