Early Flu Season Arrives

Health officials recently confirmed two cases of influenza in Missoula County. This is several months earlier than when the first flu cases of the season are typically reported in late December or early January.

With this early start to flu season, Missoula Public Health (MPH) encourages people to take precautions and get their flu shots now rather than later.

The Immunization Clinic at MPH offers walk-in services for flu and COVID vaccines Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Wednesday by appointment only. Vaccines are available for all ages. Patients should bring a photo ID and their insurance card if they have it.

MPH is offering flu and COVID vaccines at three upcoming offsite clinics:

• Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2 to 7 p.m., Missoula County Fairgrounds, Home Arts Building

• Saturday, Oct. 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Health and Wellness Fair, University of Montana in the UC Ballroom (flu, COVID, TDaP, shingles, pneumonia vaccines will all be available at this clinic.)

• Friday, Oct. 27, 4 to 7 p.m., Imagine Nation Brewing