Schools make flu shots available

The school district is offering free flu shots Wednesday.

Flu vaccinations will be available from 1 to 3 p.m. in the multi-purpose room at Rea Elementary School, 661 Hamilton St. The vaccination is open to anyone 2 years of age or older on a first-come, first-served basis until 3 p.m. or supplies run out.

“We’re recommending that people get immunized early,” said school nurse Natalie Gerdes. “This is a completely free clinic.”

She urges everyone to get the flu shot, especially children and the elderly, to prevent losing school and work days to the flu, as well as preventing serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia. It is also unclear how severe the virus will be this year, she said.

The Health Care Agency of Orange County gave the district material for 400 injections and 400 nasal vaccinations, Gerdes said. A screening will be given to determine who is eligible for the nasal sprays.

In past years, all free vaccination supplies have been exhausted, Gerdes said.

Those who are sick Wednesday, have had a reaction to a previous flu vaccination, are allergic to eggs, or have a history of Guillain Barre syndrome are not eligible.

For more information, call the HOPE Clinic at (949) 515-6725.

— Britney Barnes

Twitter: @britneyjbarnes