Macon County to provide free flu vaccines for uninsured residents

Understanding the need to protect all Macon County citizens and to lower the burden for health providers in Macon County, the Macon County Commissioners have approved to cover the cost of influenza (flu) vaccines for Macon County residents without insurance.

As part of the original fund that was allotted for COVID-19 emergency response, this funding will help to increase the coverage of citizens vaccinated against the seasonal flu.

“We are incredibly grateful that the commissioners saw the need to provide this service to Macon County citizens,” said Macon County Health Director, Kathy McGaha. “By achieving greater flu vaccine coverage throughout Macon County, it will take some of the burden away from physicians and clinics in having to deal with both COVID-19 and flu outbreaks.”

Macon County Public Health is currently conducting drive-thru flu vaccination clinics every Wednesday in October from 2-5 p.m. at 1830 Lakeside Drive. No appointment is necessary to receive the vaccination.

“Our hope is that our community will step up and be a hometown hero to protect their community,” said McGaha.

The entire state of North Carolina is under a “Safer at Home” executive order, currently under phase 3 with masks required to be worn when social distancing cannot be maintained. Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19; however, anyone of any age can become infected with this illness.

Therefore, MCPH asks that community members strictly follow the governor’s orders and continue to practice social distancing, as well as safe hygiene measures such as hand washing and frequently cleaning touched objects and surfaces.

The public can monitor the different phases of re-opening and learn more about the restrictions HERE

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