RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - The Tennessee Department of Health is encouraging all Tennesseans to receive a flu vaccine. The vaccinations for the flu will be free on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at three locations with one providing a drive-thru service.
Influenza, or "the flu" is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older adults, young children and people with per-existing health conditions are at high risk of serious flu complications.
Rutherford County and the Nashville Metro Statistical Area is rated for having a minimal number of residents receiving outpatient medical help for flu-like symptoms. According to state officials, 1.8% of residents in our immediate area have visited a doctors office with flu like symptoms in the past week. If last year's statistics hold true, then we may see a spike in flu numbers in December.
The free drive-thru flu vaccines will be administered at the Kittrell Public Health and Safety building. This event is organized by the Rutherford County Health Department. The event will be from 9 in the morning until noon.
Other locations providing free flu vaccines on Wednesday include both health departments in Murfreesboro and Smyrna. While the vaccine will be free at the local health department's, they will not be offering a drive-thru service. The Rutherford County Health Department will give the vaccines as a walk-in service between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. An appointment is not needed to receive the vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Tennessee Department of Health recommend that everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, and can prevent serious complications that can result in hospitalization and even death. The flu vaccine will remain free to anyone eligible to receive it at all local health departments across the state throughout flu season.
The department of health reports, “A flu vaccine is the best way to help prevent flu and its potentially serious complications.” Click Here to learn more. Visit Rutherford County EMA to keep up with dates and locations you can receive a free flu vaccine.
Drive-Thru Location:
- Kittrell Public Health and Safety Building
- 8055 Woodbury Pike, Readyville, TN 37149
- HOURS: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Walk-In Location
- Rutherford County Health Department
- 100 West Burton Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37130
- HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Walk-In Location
- North Rutherford County Health Department
- 108 David Collins Drive, Smyrna, TN 37167
- HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For information about getting a free flu shot, contact the Rutherford County Health Department at (615) 898-7880.
