BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Crawford County Health Department is urging residents aged 6 months and older to get their annual influenza vaccination in October, which officials say is the ideal time to ensure protection lasts through the entire flu season.
During a recent interview, Public Health official Kate Siefert explained that the body needs about two weeks to develop immunity after receiving the shot, making October the prime window to get vaccinated before holiday gatherings. Siefert also addressed common misconceptions, noting that it is impossible to contract the flu from the vaccine, as it contains only a dead virus or no virus at all.
The Health Department will offer several convenient options for residents:
- Drive-Thru Clinic: Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Health Department office, 1520 Isaac Beale Road in Bucyrus. No appointment is needed.
- New Washington Walk-In: Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church. No appointment is needed.
- Thursday Appointments: Walk-in clinics are available every Thursday throughout October by calling 419-562-5871 to schedule a time.
Siefert highlighted that the department is receiving single-dose, preservative-free flu shots this year, which may reduce side effects for people sensitive to preservatives like thimerosal.
The department is providing three types of vaccines: the standard flu shot, FluBlock (for ages 9+ and three times the antigens, made without eggs for those with egg allergies), and the High-Dose vaccine (four times the antigens, for those 65 and older). Residents are encouraged to bring their insurance card.