Portage County – Flu-associated hospitalizations continue to increase throughout the state of Ohio. As of January 31, Portage County has had 111 influenza associated hospitalizations so far this flu season. Flu season generally lasts from October to May, and peaks around this time of year.
Flu vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu or reducing the severity of symptoms associated with the flu. Other effective ways to avoid getting or spreading the flu include: washing your hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer; covering coughs and sneezes with tissues, or coughing or sneezing into your elbow; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and staying home when sick and until fever-free for 24 hours without using a fever-reducing medication.
Who should be vaccinated?
• Everyone 6 months and older (Recommendation from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention)
Especially:
- Pregnant Women
- People with chronic medical conditions; including asthma and diabetes
- Children younger than 5 years of age
Flu shots are still available at the Portage County Health District every Tuesday, from 8:00am – 10:00am and Wednesday, from 8:00am – 12:00 noon at 705 Oakwood Street, 2nd floor, Ravenna, Ohio 44266. All clinics are walk-in, no appointment needed.
Cost:
The following insurance plans are accepted and will be billed: Medicaid, Buckeye, Care Source, United Health, Molina, Medicare Part B (if primary coverage), Medical Mutual, Aetna, Cigna, SummaCare and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. No out-of-pocket costs with these plans.
For other insurance plans (Paramount, Apex, Humana, etc.), cash or check will be accepted and a receipt of payment will be provided to be submitted to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
- Cost is $30 for children and adults.
High Dose (recommended for 65 years and older) is $60. - If uninsured or underinsured, flu shots will be provided free of charge.
Pneumonia shots will also be available for individuals 65 years and older and high risk individuals. Same insurances are accepted with no out-of-pocket cost.
- Prevnar 13-cost $215
- Pneumovax 23-cost $105
