Reno, Nev. (October 17, 2019) – Flu season is here and on the move for the 2019-2020 season in Washoe County and northern Nevada. With official reports of flu deaths and many more flu hospitalizations last season, getting a flu vaccine is critical to protecting the health of all Nevadans.

Immunize Nevada, Renown Health, SafeKids Washoe County, and the Washoe County Health District are hosting a no-cost flu vaccine clinic for children at The Discovery (490 South Center Street) on Wednesday, October 23 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All families and anyone over six months of age is invited to receive a flu vaccine.

Vaccines are available on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last. If you have health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or Nevada Checkup, please bring your insurance card with you. Flu vaccines will also be available to parents and other caretakers as well. No-cost flu vaccine will also be available for those who qualify for the Vaccines for Children program.

All children who get a flu shot (plus one adult per family) will be given free admission to the museum between 4-8 p.m.

Among the most vulnerable in our community are children, especially those under the age of five who are at most risk of experiencing serious flu-related complications. Adults over the age of 65, pregnant women, and those living with a chronic condition are also more vulnerable than the general population.

“The flu vaccine is your best protection against contracting the flu. The influenza immunization clinic at The Discovery is a great opportunity to get the whole family vaccinated and enjoy museum time too. We know family schedules can be a challenge, therefore this event is at a convenient time and location,” said Heidi Parker, Executive Director of Immunize Nevada. “It’s a win-win, for families and for our community.”

Most healthy adults may be able to infect other people beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Children may pass the virus for longer than seven days. Symptoms start one to four days after the virus enters the body. “That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick,” Parker added.

For more information on the clinic and flu resources, please contact Immunize Nevada at info@immunizenevada.org or 775-624-7117. This clinic is made possible through the support of Immunize Nevada, Renown Health, SafeKids Washoe County, the Washoe County Health District, and The Discovery.

Immunize Nevada is widely recognized as Nevada’s trusted resource for immunizations and community health for all ages by fostering education and statewide collaboration. Immunize Nevada’s vision is healthy communities across Nevada protected from vaccine-preventable disease.