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The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) released its flu clinic schedule for the 2024-25 flu season last week, featuring more than a dozen events through mid-November.

The department announced the mobile vaccination program last week in an effort to drive numbers to their vaccination clinics, one of which took place last Saturday, during which 268 Fresno County residents were provided doses.

The department’s events do not require registration with walk-ins welcome at each drive-thru clinic this year. A parent or legal guardian must be present for children under 18 years of age to receive vaccinations.

“Protect your health and the health of loved ones by getting a flu vaccine this season,” says Leticia Berber, a local health educator. “These vaccination events are an example of the community and health partners coming together to push health equity forward by giving everyone an opportunity, removing barriers, and providing access to medical countermeasures to all residents.”

Saturday’s event, while not listed on the department’s schedule which was also released last week, brings the total number of drive-thru vaccination events this season to 16.

Health officials encourage residents over the age of six months to consider vaccinations; children nine years and younger that have not received a flu vaccine should receive two vaccines separated by four weeks.

“Together, we can take progressive steps to protect, preserve and promote the health of all Fresno County residents,” Berber said.

The next drive-thru vaccination event will take place tomorrow at the Sierra Oaks Senior Center at 33276 Lodge Road in Tollhouse from 10 a.m. to noon.

The flu vaccine, designed to protect against the most likely strains of influenza this season, takes approximately two weeks to develop protective tendencies and can last up to a full year.

For more information about vaccines, as well as upcoming events, check out the FCDPH website. Additional information can also be found by contacting the FCDPH Immunization program at (559) 600-3550.