by the Fairfax County Health Department and Department of Neighborhood and Community Services
(Posted 2020 October)
Each year, influenza—better known as the flu—causes millions of illnesses in the United States, and people age 65 and older account for the majority of flu hospitalizations and deaths. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick.
The Fairfax County Health Department and Department of Neighborhood and Community Services are offering flu vaccination clinics at select senior centers. This service begins in October and is available to residents 18 and older by appointment only (see dates below).
The Health Department is urging everyone six months of age and older to get the flu vaccine. This year is especially important since flu symptoms are similar with to those of COVID-19 infection, another respiratory illness. Getting a flu vaccine this season will reduce symptoms that may be confused with COVID-19 and limit the number of illnesses, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit admissions, alleviating stress on the health care system.
For your safety, appointments are limited, and face masks and temperature checks will be required. Don’t wait—take control of your health this season and get a flu vaccine!
To make your appointment, call 703-246-6010,* TTY 711. Learn more information.
Find other places in the community to get a flu vaccine.
*The Health Department is administering the quadrivalent influenza vaccine (not “high-dose.”) Pneumonia vaccine available for those 65 years of age and over. Must be requested when making your appointment.
Call to make an appointment 703-246-6010.*
Monday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Lincolnia Senior Center,
4710 N. Chambliss, Alexandria
Monday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Original Mount Vernon High School
8333 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria
Monday, Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Little River Glen Senior Center
4001 Barker Ct., Fairfax
Monday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Lewinsville Senior Center
1613 Great Falls St., McLean
Learn more information from the Fairfax County Health Department.
*The Health Department is administering the quadrivalent influenza vaccine (not “high-dose.”) Pneumonia vaccine available for those 65 years of age and over. Must be requested when making your appointment.
In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu, these simple steps can help stop the spread of germs and protect you from getting sick:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick, which will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean your hands often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).