PHOENIX (Oct. 27, 2021) – Now is the time to get your flu shot and to also make sure your family has protection against flu as well, say Banner Health experts.
Banner Urgent Care is providing flu shots and treating people diagnosed with the flu at its Arizona locations.
“We honestly don’t know what to expect this flu season. We could be facing a ‘twindemic’ with a busy flu season and ongoing COVID-19 cases,’’ said Dr. Devin Minior, physician executive at Banner Urgent Care.
So far, more than a dozen people have tested positive for influenza this flu season, according to recent Arizona Department of Health Services reports.
Last year, the number of flu cases were down in the United States to historically low levels because of COVID-19 mitigations such as masking and social distancing. Also, there was a record number of flu vaccinations administered.
Without those precautions, flu season could come roaring back this year, experts say.
“It’s really a season of unknowns. The one thing we do know is that flu shots offer your best protection against getting the flu,’’ Dr. Minior said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said that it is safe to get COVID vaccinations and flu shots at the same time.
Annual flu vaccines are especially important for the following groups:
• Children ages six months to four years
• Adults 50 years and older
• Nursing home residents
• People with underlying health conditions such as heart disease and lung disease
• People who are immunosuppressed and those who are pregnant
Banner Urgent Care provide flu shots in a safe environment that follows CDC recommendations, including masking, pre-screening patients for COVID-19 symptoms and limiting facility access.
“We know that many people won’t be able to get their vaccine at their workplace this year. We want people to be assured that we are offering them a safe place to get their vaccination,’’ Dr. Minior said.
Flu shots are available at Banner Urgent Care clinics with $0 copay with most health insurances.
Visit urgentcare.bannerhealth.com to schedule your flu shot.
Banner Urgent Care provides a close, convenient and affordable treatment option for patients with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries such as cold and flu; ear, eye and throat infections; fevers; skin rashes; and sprains, strains and lacerations. Banner Urgent Care is open every day of the year and accepts most insurance plans. For more information, locations and hours of operation, please visit www.BannerHealth.com/urgentcare.
For further information contact us at: [email protected]