Flu season is upon us and Greene County Medical Center is making it convenient for people to get their flu vaccinations.

Immunization Coordinator Jill Juergenson says the flu vaccine is recommended for anyone six-months and older to get their flu shot by the end of October. She adds that vaccinations, including the flu vaccine, are safe.

“Vaccines are thoroughly tested before licensing and carefully monitored even after they are licensed to ensure that they are very safe to give. Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary.”

She describes what strains of influenza that the Centers for Disease Control has selected to be included in this year’s flu vaccine.

“The quadrivalent flu vaccine has four different strains in it, two ‘A’ and two ‘B’ and there is one type ‘A’ strain that is different this year compared to last year. Last year we had an ‘A’ Switzerland and this year we have an ‘A’ Hong Kong in the flu vaccine.”

The medical center is hosting a “drive-thru” flu clinic tomorrow at Clover Hall from 5 to 7pm. Patients don’t even have to leave their vehicle to get their flu shots. Two more flu clinics will be held on Friday at the Churdan Methodist Church from 8:30 to 10:30am and at the Paton Library from 1 to 3pm.