Several SE Minnesota counties team up to provide flu shots for students

(ABC 6 News) – Health organizations in Olmsted, Dodge and Goodhue Counties have teamed up with area schools to offer flu vaccinations for students.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with this group of organizations with their robust resources and commitment to making the health of the community a priority," said Nurse Manager for Disease Prevention and Control at Olmsted County Public Health Leah Espinda-Brandt.

"This collaboration creates opportunities to more broadly distribute flu immunization to our youth.”

Registration to receive the flu vaccine is required. Online registration begins August 11, 2021 and parents can register their children until September 15, 2021. Online registration is preferred; however, paper forms are available at schools. No registration forms will be accepted after 11 p.m. September 15.

To find out more, including which schools are taking part and how to register, please visit http://www.semnic.org/schoolfluclinics.aspx

Out of caution due to the COVID-19 pandemic, children won’t be offered the nasal spray (FluMist). Those interested in getting the nasal flu vaccine should contact their primary care provider.

Nursing staff will offer non-medication, pain-reducing, topical coolant sprays, and other distractions proven to reduce pain when children receive the influenza shot.