As summer’s sweltering days transition to cooler weather, we begin to think about the changing of the season. However, fall isn’t the only season we’re entering. Flu season is just around the corner.
The best way to prevent getting the flu is to be vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age and older receive the seasonal flu vaccine unless certain health conditions indicate otherwise.
As part of our ongoing dedication to keeping the residents of Gaston County healthy, Gaston Medical Partners will hold three flu clinics from 10 AM – 2 PM on the following dates:
- Saturday, September 19, 2020
- Saturday, September 26, 2020
- Saturday, October 3, 2020
Do I need to make an appointment?
While walk-up appointments during flu shot clinics are an option, we highly recommend making an appointment by calling 704-800-4268. Beyond the three flu shot clinic dates, it is also possible to get a flu vaccination via walk-in or by making an appointment for a nurse visit.
Do I need to be a Gaston Medical Partners patient?
If you are not a Gaston Medical Partners patient and do not have a primary care provider, we recommend making an appointment for an annual physical. During this exam, your doctor will address all your health needs, including your flu shot, and other vaccinations we need throughout our lives.
I’ve never had the flu vaccine before. Why is it so important now?
While getting your flu vaccine is important every year, it is especially important during the coronavirus pandemic. We learned earlier in the pandemic that it is possible to be infected with both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Reducing instances of the flu not only keeps you and our community healthy, but it keeps our healthcare system from becoming overburdened, and resources like personal protective equipment (PPE) from being depleted.
How do you know if you have the flu or COVID-19?
The flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses and have similar symptoms. Unfortunately, it is difficult to tell which may be responsible for symptoms without testing. If you have symptoms, it’s important to call Gaston Medical Partners at 704-800-4268 so we can help recommend the best next step, from a virtual visit with a physician to a testing appointment.