KINGMAN––As we enter flu season, Kingman Regional Medical Center will host several free flu shot clinics for children and adults. Vaccination is important for all people, but elderly people and children are especially susceptible to complications from influenza.

It takes about two weeks for the antibodies that protect against flu to fully develop. For this reason, people should get vaccinated as soon as possible.

 According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), last year’s flu season (2017-2018) was one of the most severe ever documented, with a record number of pediatric deaths. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children ages 6 months and older receive a flu shot to protect them from illness this flu season.

 The flu vaccine offers the best protection available against influenza and serious complications from the disease. While you can catch the flu at any time, “flu season” begins in October and lasts into the spring. Cases of influenza peak around February most years.

 KRMC will offer flu shots at the following events with no out-of-pocket cost to the patient:

• Women’s Health Fair, 3801 Santa Rosa Drive on October 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., ages 3 and up.
• Walk Away from Drugs, Centennial Park, October 17 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., ages 3 and up.
• Joshua Tree Pediatrics, 1739 Beverly Avenue, Suite 204. Ages 6 months to 18 years. Walk-ins are welcome from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following dates: Oct. 11, Oct.18 and Nov. 2, 2018.