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WALKER - Cass County Public Health will hold Ban the Bug Influenza Vaccination Clinics on Monday, December 6, Wednesday, December 8, and Friday, December 10, 2010 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cass County Health, Human and Veteran Service Building, in Walker. No appointment is necessary. The clinics are being held in conjunction with the statewide Ban the Bug Campaign, an effort to encourage Minnesotans to get vaccinated against influenza.

"It is not too late to get a flu shot," said Deb Andrews, local Public Health Nurse. "The Ban the Bug Campaign seeks to remind people that there is still time to protect themselves against influenza."

Influenza vaccinations are recommended for all Minnesotans over age six months, but they are especially important for young children six months to four years old, seniors, people of any age with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, people living with or caring for those at high risk for complications from influenza, and healthcare workers.

The vaccination costs $25 and is free to those with Medicare Part B. Residents are reminded to bring their Medicare and health insurance cards along to the clinic. If you are under age 19 and un or underinsured, you may qualify for Minnesota Vaccines for Children (MNVFC), cost $3.00 per immunization.

Also, wearing short sleeves (under a sweater if it's cold) makes it easier to get vaccinated. For those who don't like shots, a nasal spray is also available for healthy people ages 2 through 49.

For more information about the Ban the Bug Clinic, call Deb Andrews at 218-547-1340 x218 or visit/email (www.co.cass.mn.us).

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