Protecting Our Community: Upcoming Flu Shot Clinics for Older Adults

We are proud to partner with county public health departments across our service area to host flu shot clinics this fall at many of our meal sites and senior centers. Some clinics will also be held at other community locations. We are so grateful for the dedication of local health providers who make it possible for older adults to receive this important protection close to home.

Why Flu Shots Matter for Older Adults

Influenza is not just a seasonal nuisance, it can be a serious health threat, especially for adults age 65 and older. As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder to fight off infections. Older adults are at higher risk of complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death from the flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone over the age of six months, but especially for older adults. Studies show flu shots:

• Reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization

• Lower the chance of spreading flu to others (protecting grandchildren, caregivers, and neighbors)

• Provide extra protection in community settings where many people gather

Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and updated each year to match circulating strains. For older adults, high-dose or adjuvanted vaccines may provide even stronger protection, and public health nurses can help answer any questions about which vaccine is right for you.

Getting a flu shot is one of the simplest steps you can take to safeguard your health, your independence, and your community.

Upcoming Flu Shot Clinics

Here are the scheduled clinics in our area this fall:

• Friday, Sept. 26 – Broadway Station Senior Center, Fargo, 12 to 1 pm (Fargo Cass Public Health)

• Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Ed Clapp Senior Center, Fargo, 12 to 1 pm (Fargo Cass Public Health)

• Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Hankinson Community Center, 4 to 7 pm (Richland County Public Health)

• Thursday, Oct. 2 – Hillsboro Senior Center, 9 to 10:30 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Friday, Oct. 3 – Hatton Community Center, 8:30 to 10 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Friday, Oct. 3 – Page Senior Center, 11 am to 12 pm (Fargo Cass Public Health)

• Friday, Oct. 3 – Lisbon Senior Center, 1:30 to 3 pm (Ransom County Public Health)

• Monday, Oct. 6 – Wahpeton Senior Center, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm (Richland County Public Health)

• Wednesday, Oct. 8 – Richland #44 School, 4 to 7 pm (Richland County Public Health)

• Wednesday, Oct. 15 – Lidgerwood KC Hall, 4 to 7 pm (Richland County Public Health)

• Thursday, Oct. 16 – Buxton Senior Center, 9 to 10:30 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Thursday, Oct. 16 – Reynolds Valley United, 11 am to 12:30 pm (Traill District Health Unit)

• Friday, Oct. 17 – Mayville Senior Center, 10 to 11:30 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Monday, Oct. 20 – Wahpeton Senior Center, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm (Richland County Public Health)

• Tuesday, Oct. 21 – Clifford Rural H2O Building, 9 to 10 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Tuesday, Oct. 21 – Galesburg Community Center, 10:15 to 11:15 am (Traill District Health Unit)

• Wednesday, Oct. 22 – Wyndmere Community Center, 4 to 7 pm (Richland Public Health)

How to Prepare

• Bring your insurance card if you have one (most plans cover the cost).

• Wear short sleeves for easier access.

• Arrive a little early to complete any paperwork.

Together, we can keep our community healthy.

Whether at a senior center, meal site, or community gathering place, we invite you to take this important step for your health. Getting your flu shot not only protects you but helps keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe this season.