WUPHD Encourages Resident to Get Their Annual Flu Shot Today During Multiple Clinics

As the temperatures drop, and more people stay indoors, flu season will typically spike during the year. The western Upper Peninsula health department says that for the most part flu season in the Upper Peninsula starts around November and ends as the region enters into spring. So far this year, the flu virus has been reported in a few cases, and WUPHD Chief Executive and Health Officer Kate Beer says the region should expect an average flu season.

“And then it will generally pick up through the winter months. Right now at the health department, we have both high-dose and low-dose flu vaccines. Usually, the elderly population will get the high dose flue shot.” – Kate Beer, Chief Executive and Health Officer, Western Upper Peninsula Health Department

The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department says that thousands of people will get their flu shot this fall. The health department encourages residents to update their flu shot so they can stay healthy throughout the winter.

“We do give out a few thousand, but we cover the entire district. But we encourage everyone to go out and get their flu shot. It prevents severe illness, particularly for those that are older or are immune-compromised.” – Kate Beer, Chief Executive and Health Officer, Western Upper Peninsula Health Department

There are two flu shot clinics taking place today in the western upper peninsula. UPHS Portage will host a flu shot clinic at the hospital beginning at 11 a.m. A second drive-through flu shot clinic has been organized by Aspires Ontoagnon. That clinic begins at 9 a.m. at Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital. Please check with your insurance provider to find out if your annual flu shot is covered by insurance. The WUPHD also has flu shots and updated COVID vaccines available at the health department’s office in Hancock.

9am Aspirus Ontonagon Flu Clinic Details

Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital and Clinics is holding community flu shot vaccination clinics in October. Flu vaccinations are available for people ages 6 months to adult. Children under the age of 18 will need parental consent. All vaccinations will be entered into the Michigan Care Improvement Registry. As Aspirus prepares for the 2023-24 flu season, health experts urge everyone that while a flu shot is always recommended, this year getting a flu shot is more important than ever.

Aspirus Ontonagon Clinic, 601 S 7th Street, Ontonagon If this location or dates do not work for you, you may schedule your flu shot appointment at another Aspirus clinic by calling the clinic directly. To find a clinic near you, visit aspirus.org or call the Aspirus Customer Contact Center at 800-847.4707. Aspirus is asking individuals to schedule appointments and be pre-registered by calling 906-884-8240. There is a $0 copay with most insurances. For more information, call 906-884-8240.

11 am UPHS – Portage Flu Clinic Details

UP Health System – Portage is hosting community flu shot clinic at the Rozsa Center building for members of Houghton and Keweenaw Counties. No appointment is needed, walk-ins are welcome. The cost of the flu shot is $40. Cash, check and insurance are accepted.

Western Upper Peninsula Health Department Website