Midwestern healthcare providers launch flu vaccine clinics

Healthcare providers in the Midwest are launching various initiatives to increase flu vaccination rates ahead of the upcoming season.

Hy-Vee Pharmacy is hosting drive-thru flu vaccine clinics at all locations on September 22 and September 29 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. These clinics do not require appointments or prescriptions. Hy-Vee offers regular and high-dose shots, which are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. Eligible patients in Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota can receive shots without a prescription starting at 6 months of age, while those in Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin can do so starting at age 3.

In Missouri, MU Health is conducting multiple vaccine events throughout September and October, including evening clinics, drive-thru options, and community events such as the Columbia Farmers Market. These events offer both flu and COVID-19 vaccines. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Boone County saw a roughly 64 percent increase in combined Influenza A and B cases between August 30 and September 12 compared to the same period in the previous year.