OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – The Oakland County Health Division is urging residents to get flu shots after a recent flu-related death involving a senior citizen.
"My heart goes out to the family," said Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson. "This is an
unfortunate reminder that influenza can be a very serious illness, especially in adults over the age of
65."
Health Division recommends flu shots
The Health Division recommended everyone over the age of six months receive an influenza
vaccination. Residents at a higher risk of flu complications, such as children younger than 5 years old,
pregnant women, older adults and anyone with chronic medical conditions, should especially get a flu
shot and take preventive actions, officials said.
"Flu season has just begun, so this is a critical time to get vaccinated, which is the best way to prevent
the flu," said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County. "You can also help prevent the flu
by washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick."
Getting an annual flu shot not only decreases the risk of getting the flu, it also helps decrease the severity of illness and complications and protects the entire community, especially those who are unable to be vaccinated.
How flu virus can spread
The flu virus can be spread to others as far as six feet away, mainly by droplets made when people cough, sneeze or talk.
A person can also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching their own eyes, nose or mouth. Washing hands often with soap and water is a proactive way to avoid transmission. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub, officials said.
Flu shots available
Flu shots are available at Health Division offices in Pontiac and Southfield from noon to 8 p.m. on
Mondays and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays.
Pre-payment and registration are not available at the walk-in clinics. Flu shots cost $25. The high-dose flu shot recommended for residents 65 years and older is $47 and is covered by Medicare.
Here is the information for both health offices:
North Oakland Health Center
- Address: 1200 N. Telegraph Road 34E in Pontiac
- Phone number: 248-858-1280
- Website: oakgov.com/health
South Oakland Health Center
- Address: 27725 Greenfield Road in Southfield
- Phone number: 248-424-7000
- Website: oakgov.com/health
Flu shot payment information
Payment options include cash, credit (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa), Medicare,
Medicaid and some insurance. Credit card fees apply.
Residents should bring picture identification and all insurance cards to the clinic.
OCHD participates in the Vaccines for Children Program. No one will be denied access to services due to inability to pay. There is a discounted/sliding fee schedule available.