As of December 29, 2009, we are out of seasonal flu vaccine for adults for this flu season. We do still have some seasonal flu vaccine for children less than 19 years who are on Medicaid, or are without insurance, or have insurance that does not cover the cost of vaccinations. For more information, call (231) 724-1220.

The Immunization program offers two types of seasonal flu vaccine. The first is a shot, which is injected into the muscle. The second is a mist, which is sprayed into the nostrils. Some differences include:  

Seasonal Flu Shot ($27) - Vaccine Information Statement

• Contains killed flu virus
• Is given by injection into the muscle
• Is the most common form of flu vaccine
• Is cheaper than the intranasal spray
• Is recommended for most groups
• May contain the preservative thimerosal

   

Seasonal Flu Spray ($35) - Vaccine Information Statement

• Contains live, but weakened flu virus
• Is given by spraying a mist into the nostrils
• Is a less common form of flu vaccine
• Is more expensive than the flu shot
• Is only recommended for 2-49 year-olds in good health status
• Is not recommended for pregnant women
• Does not contain thimerosal or other preservatives

Regardless of which method is used, it takes up to 2 weeks for protection against the seasonal flu to develop after you receive the vaccination.

Who Should Get a Seasonal Flu Vaccination

In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, it is
recommended by CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) that certain people
should get vaccinated each year. Most of these people are recommended for vaccination because they are at
high risk of having serious flu complications or they live with or care for people at high risk for serious
complications.

   
People recommended for seasonal flu vaccination during the 2009-2010 season remain the same as the previous season:

• Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday
• Pregnant women
• People 50 years of age and older
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
• People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
  • Health care workers
  • Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
  • Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

Cost

Seasonal flu shot $27

Seasonal flu mist $35

Pneumonia shot $52

Anyone can receive a seasonal flu vaccination at the health department, however, the health department is unable to bill Medicare or health insurance programs other than Medicaid. If you have Medicare, we recommend either getting a seasonal flu shot at your doctor's office or through Visiting Nurse Services (VNS).

Hours of Service

Monday through Friday

Noon until 4:30 pm

Please call (231) 724-1220 to confirm vaccine availability.

Additional Information

2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccinations

2009 H1N1 Flu

Is It A Cold Or The Flu?

Preventing Seasonal Flu (CDC)

What To Do If You Get Sick With The Flu (CDC)