LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – It’s flu season and the Lake County Public Health Division has announced its community influenza vaccination clinic schedule.

Getting vaccinated is a great way to avoid getting the flu. Anyone 6 months of age or older is encouraged to get a flu vaccine.

Being careful to use good hygiene is another way to protect yourself and those around you. If you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or the crook of your arm instead of your hands.

A virus can easily be passed from your hands to the things you touch. Wash your hands often and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. Try not to touch your face with your hands.

A virus can enter your system through the membranes of your eyes, nose and mouth. Protect yourself by avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick.

Choosing a healthful lifestyle can also help to keep you well. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, drinking plenty of water and staying physically active can help to maintain a healthy immune system. Together, we can help to decrease the spread of influenza in our community.

The symptoms of the flu include a temperature of over 100 degrees F combined with a cough, sore throat, body aches, headache and a lack of energy. If you are ill, stay home to keep from infecting others. 

They will also be offering Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccines. Due to the Valley fire, these vaccines are currently available at no cost.

This vaccine is recommended for those that have never had a Tdap vaccine or if it has been 10 years or longer since their last tetanus vaccine. It is also important for adults who will be in close contact with young infants.

Supplies are limited, so these vaccines will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Seasonal flu vaccines are $2. Tdap vaccines are FREE while supplies last.

Lake County Public Health Clinic schedule for the seasonal flu vaccines is as follows:

– Spring Valley: Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Spring Valley Community Center, 3000 Wolf Creek Road, Clearlake Oaks.

– Clearlake: Thursday, Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Senior Community Center, 3245 Bowers Ave.

– Lucerne: Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Northshore Community Center, 10th and Country Club Drive.

– Hidden Valley Lake: Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Greenview Restaurant and Cafe, 19210 Hartmann Road.

– Middletown: Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Middletown Library, 21256 Washington St.

– Lakeport: Tuesday, Nov. 10, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., and Thursday, Nov. 12, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Public Health Division, 922 Bevins Court.

Flu vaccinations are also available in a variety of locations such as your primary care provider and local pharmacies.

The Lake County Public Health Division wishes you all a healthy and happy fall and winter season.

Please call 1-800-794-9291 or 707-263-1090 with questions or concerns.