CARTERET COUNTY, NC – The Carteret County Health Department is now offering the seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine to the general public at the health department clinic, 3820-A Bridges Street in Morehead City. Flu shots will be given at the immunization clinic during the following hours:
- Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Closed for lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
- Friday 8 to 11 a.m.
To reduce wait time, residents are encouraged to visit the health department website and download the flu vaccination consent form. Complete the consent form in advance and bring a copy to the vaccination clinic. Health officials will have forms available onsite for their convenience as well.
The health department accepts most major insurances. For those without insurance, the standard seasonal flu vaccine cost is $33. There is no cost for uninsured children under the age of 18. Residents should bring their insurance card and driver’s license/ID to the vaccination clinic.
The Carteret County Health Department encourages everyone ages six months and older to protect themselves, their family and community by getting a flu vaccine now. While the flu virus can have serious implications, even for healthy people, flu complications are most common among very young children and people over 50, as well as people with chronic health conditions and pregnant women.
“In North Carolina, flu infections are most common from late fall to early spring with activity usually peaking in January or February,” said Carteret County Director of Nursing Kim Davis. “Flu vaccines can make illness milder and reduce the risk of more serious outcomes. It’s important to protect those in the community at high risk of complicated or severe flu infections such as children, pregnant women, seniors and those with medical conditions such as asthma, COPD and diabetes.”
In addition to the health department flu vaccination clinics, individuals can contact their healthcare provider or pharmacist for a flu shot. Residents can schedule a flu shot appointment at the health department by calling (252) 728-8550, option 3 during normal business hours.
The health department also recommends that everyone practice healthy habits to prevent getting or transmitting the flu by:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Staying home from work or school if sick.
- Covering mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer frequently.
- Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth.
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu virus.
- If the flu is contracted, taking antiviral drugs as prescribed by a doctor.
For the latest information about the flu vaccination, contact the health department or visit https://www.carteretcountync.gov/836/Health-Department.
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