The best protection from influenza is an influenza vaccination. To help you and your family stay healthy, we are offering influenza vaccine to people 6 months and older. To make an appointment, call the clinic location near you or schedule an appointment through the patient portal (ages 18+). Patients can also request an influenza vaccine during an appointment with their primary health care provider.

You may call a number below to schedule an appointment to get a vaccination:

• Barron: 1222 E. Woodland Ave., 715-537-6747
• Bloomer: 1501 Thompson St.,715-568-2000
• Chetek: 220 Douglas St., 715-537-6747
• Chippewa Falls: 611 First Ave.,715-720-4400
• Eau Claire: 733 W. Clairemont Ave. or 1400 Bellinger St., call your primary care provider’s office or 715-464-7468; Walk-ins are welcome at Express Care, South Point Shopping Center, 2839 Mall Drive, Suite 5, or schedule an influenza immunization appointment through the patient portal.
• Elmwood: 236 E. Springer Ave., 715-639-4151
• Glenwood City: 219 E. Oak St., 715-265-7321
• Menomonie: 2321 Stout Road, 715-233-7777
• Mondovi: 700 Buffalo St., 715-926-4858
• Osseo: Seventh Street entrance, 715-597-3121
• Rice Lake: 331 S. Main St., 715-537-6747

The cost of seasonal flu vaccine is covered by some insurance plans. Mayo Clinic Health System will bill insurance or accept payment.

Children 6 months through 8 years need two flu vaccines if it’s the child’s first seasonal flu vaccination. The second vaccine is given at least four weeks from the date of the first.

People at high risk of developing serious complications from influenza include:

• Those with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and lung disease
• Pregnant women
• People 65 or older
• People who live with or care for others at high risk of developing serious complications, including caregivers of young children and people with chronic medical conditions

Viruses in the influenza vaccine are inactive, so you cannot get the flu from the vaccine. After getting vaccinated, it takes about two weeks to develop antibodies to protect against influenza. That’s why getting vaccinated early in the fall is recommended. If you are sick, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading illness to others.