Get Your Flu Vaccine Before the Holidays

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is encouraging everyone to get their flu vaccine during National Influenza Vaccination Week, from December 2-6. The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent getting the flu and to protect yourself, your family, and your community, especially as flu season picks up during the holidays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the flu shot for everyone 6 months and older, with some children needing an extra dose.

The flu vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk, like pregnant individuals, young children, and older adults. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to fully protect you, so it’s important to get your shot soon to be ready for the holidays.

MDHHS also recommends the COVID-19 and RSV vaccines, which can be given along with the flu shot. Getting all three vaccines helps protect against serious illness and the spread of respiratory viruses.

Flu vaccination rates in Michigan have been dropping, which makes it even more important for everyone to get vaccinated to help protect the community. Flu vaccines are available at many places, including Van Buren/Cass District Health Department (VBCDHD) clinics.

VBCDHD Immunization Clinics:

• Cass County
  • Location: VBCDHD Cass County Office, 302 S. Front Street, Dowagiac, MI 49047
  • Schedule: 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month, 9 AM – 12 PM & 1 PM – 4 PM
• Van Buren County
  • Location: VBCDHD Van Buren County Office, 260 South Street, Lawrence, MI 49064
  • Schedule:  Every Thursday, 9 AM – 12 PM & 1 PM – 4 PM

For more information or to schedule your flu shot, visit the VBCDHD Immunization webpage or call 269-621-3143.

You can also get the flu vaccine at local doctor’s offices and pharmacies. To find a vaccine location near you, visit Vaccine Finder.

For more details on flu prevention and respiratory illnesses, visit Michigan.gov/covidflursv and IVaccinate.org.