Get your flu shot

Flu season is fast approaching. As the health correspondent for News13, I've had many conversations over the years with those in the medical field about the importance of getting a flu shot. The very young and the elderly are especially encouraged to get a shot. DHEC’s Florence County public health departments are now scheduling flu shot appointments.

“In an effort to better serve our citizens we will be administering influenza vaccine in our county public health departments by appointment only,” said Ashley Tallon, immunization program manager for DHEC Region 4 Public Health, which includes Florence County. “To schedule an appointment, call the health department at (843) 661-4835, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.” The cost is $25. The department recommends you wear a short-sleeved shirt when you come to your appointment and, if you have one, bring your Medicaid or Medicare Part B card with you.

Other DHEC public health departments in the Pee Dee area are also scheduling appointments. Site names and phone numbers are listed below:

Chesterfield County Public Health Department - (843) 623-2117, Clarendon County Public Health Department - (803) 435-8168, Darlington County Public Health Department - (843) 398-4400, Dillon County Public Health Department - (843) 774-5611, Florence County Public Health Department - (843) 661-4835, Hartsville Public Health Department - (843) 332-7303, Kershaw County Public Health Department - (803) 425-6012, Lake City Public Health Department - (843) 394-8822, Lee County Public Health Department - (803) 484-6612, Marion County Public Health Department - (843) 423-8295, Marlboro County Public Health Department - (843) 479-6801, and Sumter County Public Health Department - (803) 773-5511.

And don't forget. One of the most important ways of protecting yourself from getting sick is to wash your hands.

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