Mayo Clinic Health System offering flu vaccinations at several SE Minnesota locations

The Mayo Clinic and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend everyone 6 months and older to get the flu vaccine.

“Like COVID-19, influenza is a virus that causes respiratory disease. Symptoms can range from mild to severe or life threatening, ”said Dr. Sarah Scherger, pediatrician at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin.

“The two diseases are not the same, however. The best way to protect yourself and others from the flu is to get vaccinated every year.”

Influenza vaccinations are offered at these locations:

• Albert Lea
  • Health Reach Building, 1705 SE Broadway Ave., rooms 1-112 and 1-113.
• Austin
  • West building, 101 14th St. NW, room 1-04.
• Owatonna
  • Southview Building, 134 Southview St.
• Rochester
  • 41st St. Professional Building, 3033 41st St. NW. Enter the building from the north side.

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Additionally, patients at most locations can apply for a flu and COVID-19 vaccination during an existing appointment with their GP at these clinic locations in southeast Minnesota:

• Adams
• Albert Lea
• Austin
• Fribault
• Sea mills
• New Richland
• Owatonna
• Fountain

“After vaccination, it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop against the flu, which is why early autumn vaccination is recommended. If you’re sick, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading it to others, ”says Scherger.

Many insurance companies will cover the cost of the seasonal flu vaccination. The Mayo Clinic Health System will bill or accept payment for the insurance. Children under the age of 18 can get a free flu shot through the Minnesota Vaccines for Children program.