Reno, NV (October 17, 2018) – Flu season has arrived in Washoe County for the 2018-2019 season. With official reports of 26 flu deaths last season, getting a flu vaccine is critical to protecting the health of all Nevadans.

Immunize Nevada, Renown Health, Safe Kids Washoe County, and the Washoe County Health District are hosting a free flu vaccine clinic for children at The Discovery (490 South Center Street) on Wednesday, October 24 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Anyone over six months of age is invited to receive a flu vaccine.

Vaccines will be made 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. All children who get a flu shot (plus one adult per family) will be given free admission to the museum between 4-8 PM that day.

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 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.

This clinic is made possible through the support of Immunize Nevada, the Washoe County Health District, Safe Kids Washoe County, Saint Mary’s Health Network, Renown Health, 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.