Flu season is coming and getting vaccinated offers the best protection. The vaccine works to reduce the risk of getting seriously ill, including hospitalizations, pneumonia and death.
Riverwood Healthcare Center will offer flu clinics for the public by appointment at all three of its locations at these times:
Aitkin Clinic: Thursdays, Oct. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.
Garrison Clinic: Tuesdays, Oct. 3 and 10, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
McGregor Clinic: Wednesdays, Oct. 4, 11 and 18, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.
To make an appointment, call Riverwood’s appointments line at 218-927-2157. When you call, have your health insurance card or information available.
Flu shots will also be made available to patients and their significant others during scheduled clinic visits this fall. After the completion of the community clinics, a flu shot may be obtained by making a nurse visit appointment.
COVID-19 and RSV shots will not be available at Riverwood’s flu clinics. If you have an interest in either of these vaccines, talk to your primary care provider.
Minnesota influenza outbreaks typically occur between December through April. Antibodies develop about two weeks after getting the vaccine.
For the elderly and those with immuno-compromising diseases, the immune system is often slower to respond. Flu shots or other vaccines may not work as well or protect against illness as long as expected.
For more information on flu symptoms, prevention and treatment, go to the Minnesota Department of Health at https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/flu/basics/index.html