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The Beaufort County Health Department will hold three drive-thru influenza vaccination clinics in October.

Clinics will be held Oct. 19 and 26 at the Health Department, located at 1436 Highland Drive, Washington, N.C. 27889. Both clinics will begin at 9 a.m., pause at noon, and then resume from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Another clinic will take place on Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at Blounts Creek Volunteer Fire Department, located at 13965 N.C. Hwy 33 East, Blounts Creek, N.C. 27814.

No appointments are necessary.

“This is the season in which we tend to see an uptick in respiratory viruses,” Beaufort County Health Director JaNell Octigan said. “Prevention is key to helping decrease the spread. One can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses by washing their hands regularly, sneezing into their sleeve rather than their hands, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and through timely vaccines, such as the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against infection and illness caused by flu viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming flu season. The vaccine helps our bodies develop antibodies that protect against infection.”

Here are some things to know if you plan on coming to a drive-thru clinic:

• Please bring your health insurance card with you.

• The Health Department will file reimbursement claims for those covered by Medicare Part B, Railroad Medicare, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, N.C. Medicaid, N.C. Health Choice and Medcost.

• For uninsured or self-pay, flu shots are $35, and high-dose flu shots (must be 65 or older) cost $86.50. The cost of the flu shot will be billed to the client.

• You can save time by filling out your flu form before visiting the drive-thru clinic. To obtain a flu form, visit BCHD.net and click on the “Flu” tab.

“The drive-thru format creates a smooth, easy process for clients, as well as decreases barriers, such as time, scheduling, and access for those with mobility issues. The drive-thru allows us to see clients effectively and efficiently all within the convenience of one’s vehicle,” Octigan said.

If you have questions, call the Health Department at 252-946-1902.