County Health Department Influenza, Covid 19 vaccination clinics underway

By RICK MILLER

Olean Star

Cattaraugus County residents still have several opportunities to get influenza and Covid vaccines at clinics across the county this month.

There are nine more influenza and Covid vaccine clinics scheduled by the Cattaraugus County Health Department.

This week there are clinics at the Cattaraugus Ambulance Service on Main Street in Cattaraugus from 2-6 p.m. Wednesday and at the Randolph Municipal Building from 2-6 p.m. Thursday.

On Tuesday, Oct., 15, the clinic will be held at the John Ash Community Center on North Barry Street in Olean from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., and Wednesday, Oct. 16, at Cutco Theater at Jamestown Community College from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

As of last week, the health department reported one confirmed case each of Influenza A and Influenza B. There were 88 cases of Covid 19 reported last month.

Public Health Director Dr. Kevin D. Watkins said the health department will be administering a tri-valent in influenza vaccine to residents age 6 months and older. Those over age 65 will receive a high dose of the tri-valent vaccine.

The tri-valent vaccine will protect against H1N1, H3N2 and a B/Victoria lineage virus.

Covid 19 vaccine will be offered at the same time as the flu shot. The vaccine is effective for about six months and is usually offered beginning in September and October.

Flu symptoms can include: Fever, aching muscles, chills and sweats, headache, dry, persistent cough, shortness of breath, tiredness and weakness, runny or stuffy nose and sore throat.

Health care providers and pharmacies also provide both influenza and Covid vaccines

County vaccination clinics, dates, times and an online registration link to each clinic follows.