Flu shots available at PHD clinics

Panhandle Health District is offering flu vaccinations at all of its five North Idaho locations.

"As with all preventative care, it’s still important for you and your loved ones to receive this year’s flu vaccine," a press release said.

This year PHD is offering drive-through flu clinics in three locations:

• Hayden – 8500 N. Atlas Road, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 30 and Oct. 7.

• Sandpoint – Travers Park, 2102 Pine St., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 30 and Oct. 7.

• St. Maries – Cormana Building 1101 Idaho Ave., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Oct. 1 and Oct. 22.

Anyone attending does not need to leave their vehicle.

"PHD staff will take all necessary precautions to keep everyone safe during the process," a press release said. "They are offering adult vaccine and high-dose vaccine for seniors at the drive-thru clinics"

Call the clinic to let them know you plan to attend the drive-through clinic. For pediatric flu vaccine, call to schedule an appointment at the clinic nearest you.

This fall and winter, PHD expects that both the flu virus and COVID-19 will be circulating, so it’s important for everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and others, the release said.

"It is possible to have the flu and COVID-19, or other respiratory illnesses, at the same time. Experts expect those occurrences to be rare, but could still happen," the release said. "Many symptoms of the flu are similar to COVID-19, so it may be hard to tell what you have become ill with."

The flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, so testing will confirm the diagnosis, according to the press release.

In Idaho, there were 39 influenza-related deaths in the 2019-2020 season. Of those, 9 occurred in the PHD.

The Kellogg PHD office is located at 35 Wildcat Way, Suite A, in Kellogg. They can be reached by phone at 208-786-7474.