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North Georgia – This fall, the annual Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinics successfully immunized *677 residents against the flu. This initiative provides vital protection and plays a critical role in curbing the spread of the virus within families and communities.
Since the inception of the Drive-thru Flu Shot Clinics districtwide in 2007, the North Georgia Health District's Emergency Preparedness team, along with dedicated nurses and Infectious Disease specialists, have joined forces with the Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield County Health Departments to make flu shots accessible and convenient. These drive-thru clinics offer a unique opportunity for community members to receive vaccinations while allowing health officials to refine their emergency response strategies for vaccine distribution during public health crises.
Local partners—ranging from law enforcement to Emergency Management Agencies, Emergency Medical Services, Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), businesses, and first responders—have rallied together to ensure the success of this initiative. The collaborative effort underscores the importance of community engagement in safeguarding public health.
Flu vaccines are widely available throughout the region, with options at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and grocery stores. Additionally, every county health department within the North Georgia Health District offers flu shots at little to no cost, depending on individual healthcare coverage. No appointment is necessary during regular clinic hours, making it easier than ever to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Georgia Department of Public Health reminds residents that flu symptoms can vary greatly and may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. Vulnerable populations—including those aged 65 and older, individuals with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, and young children—are at heightened risk for serious flu-related complications.
To further combat the flu and other viruses, the public is encouraged to adopt the following preventive measures:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the elbow to prevent germ spread.
- Avoid touching your face to minimize the risk of infection.
- Steer clear of close contact with anyone showing symptoms of illness.
- Regularly clean and disinfect commonly-touched surfaces.
- Stay home if experiencing flu-like symptoms and remain isolated for at least 24 hours after a fever subsides without medication.
For comprehensive information about influenza, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/flu.
To learn more about flu vaccines, discover our local public health services (including influenza vaccines and other preventive vaccinations), or locate your nearest county health department in the North Georgia Health District, visit our homepage at www.nghd.org. Together, let's keep our communities healthy and thriving this flu season!
*Of the 677 residents vaccinated this year at the Drive-thru Flu Shot Clinics in North Georgia, the county health departments provided the following doses:
Cherokee County....... 92
Fannin County.......... 110
Gilmer County............ 61
Murray County......... 123
Pickens County............ 55
Whitfield County......... 236
*** The North Georgia Health District and each County Health Department wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all media, community partners, and businesses who help promote and support our annual Drive-thru Flu Shot Clinics... Thank you! ***
