Genesis VNA Adds Flu Clinics At Clinton, Bettendorf Offices

DAVENPORT, Iowa – With three strains of influenza confirmed in Iowa already this season, Genesis VNA and Hospice is adding regularly scheduled flu shot clinics at its Bettendorf and Clinton offices.

Through at least the end of January, flu shots will be available on Tuesdays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the VNA office at 2535 Maplecrest Road, Bettendorf.  On Wednesdays, flu shots will be available from 1-4 p.m. at the VNA office at 611 N. 2nd Street, Clinton.

“It is not too late in the season to be vaccinated and it may be more important ithis year than in other years to have protection against the flu because three major strains of influenza have been confirmed in Iowa,’’ said Liz Howe, Community Health Supervisor for Genesis VNA and Hospice.

The Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network recently reported that Influenza B, Influenza AH1 and AH3 have been confirmed in Iowa. The latest report said, “there is increased opportunity for people to acquire influenza more than once this season.’’

The Iowa Department of Public Health is emphasizing the need for everyone to have the influenza vaccine.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends that individuals in the following groups be vaccinated:

• All children 6 months to 59 months of age.
• Women who will be pregnant during the influenza season.
• People ages 50 years and older.
• Adults and children ages 6 months and older with chronic heart or lung conditions including asthma.
• Adults and children who have required hospitalization or regular doctor visits during the past because of chronic metabolic diseases (including diabetes), kidney disease, hemoglobin abnormalities, or weakened immune system (for example, caused by medications or HIV infection).
• People with any conditions that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, such as brain injury or disease, spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders, or other nerve or muscle disorders.
• Residents of nursing homes and other facilities that provide care for people with chronic medical conditions.
• Healthy household contacts and caregivers of children up to 5 years old and people at high risk for severe complications from influenza.
• Heath care workers.

There will be a $25 cash cost for each flu immunization. Credit cards are not accepted.

Medicare Part B covers flu and pneumonia immunizations. Anyone with Medicare Part B coverage can present their card and Genesis VNA will file the claims.

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