The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) will offer free flu shots at several different locations on Tuesday, October 15 as part of the annual Fight Flu TN initiative with the Tennessee Department of Health. Flu vaccines will be available at the Lentz Public Health Center, the East Public Health Center, the Madison Community Center, Lipscomb University and Plaza Mariachi. Starting that day, flu shots will be available at all MPHD clinics free of charge throughout flu season.

"We are excited about once again offering flu vaccines to the community free of change," said Interim Director of Health Dr. Joanna Shaw-KaiKai. "This year's event is earlier than usual, which is great for those who would like to protect themselves ahead of an exciting and active fall season."

Flu shots will be available at the event on October 15 in a drive-thru setting at the Lentz Public Health Center from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Flu shots will be available by walking into the East Public Health Center and the Madison Community Center between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Flu shots will be available on a walk-in basis at Plaza Mariachi from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and at the Burton Health Science Building at Lipscomb University from noon to 6 p.m.

Flu shots are available for everyone six months of age and older. Prior to receiving a flu shot, several questions are answered to determine the best form of flu vaccine for the recipient. Those who are 65 and older or have underlying health conditions can receive a high-dose version of the flu vaccine. High-dose vaccines are available inside MPHD clinics, along with the pop-up clinical locations that are part of Fight Flu TN.

Nurses administering flu vaccines will need access to the top of the shoulder of the vaccine recipient. Those who receive flu vaccines are encouraged to wear clothing that gives easy access to the upper shoulder area like shirts with short sleeves or shirt sleeves that can be easily rolled up.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend all persons six months of age and older get the flu vaccine, especially those with underlying health conditions. According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 people who were hospitalized with the flu in recent years had at least one underlying health condition. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against three different strains of the flu.

COVID-19 vaccines will not be available at flu vaccine distribution points. Those in need of COVID-19 vaccines are encouraged to visit vaccines.gov to find a pharmacy or clinic near you. According to the CDC, it is safe to get a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.