The Louisiana Department of Health says parish health offices will continue to offer free flu shots while supplies last. The original cut-off date was February 12.
"Louisiana is continuing to see widespread flu activity in this particularly severe flu season. The strain of the flu we are seeing now is one that typically causes more severe illness, and results in higher hospitalization rates and deaths,” said Dr. Frank Welch, state immunization medical director. “Hospitals continue to report large numbers of sick patients and providers are reporting high numbers of patient visits due to flu and flu-like symptoms.”
Since January 29, almost 4,000 vaccines have been administered across the state. LDH officials say several thousand remain.
"We want to make sure that we utilize every dose we have if there is someone who wants it," said Welch.
If you would like to get the shot, you can find your participating parish health unit here. It's recommended you call ahead.
LDH also asks that you wear short or loose-fitting sleeves and bring your private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare card if you have one.
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