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The John J. Pershing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center will offer several opportunities for veterans to obtain no-cost influenza vaccinations at its seven facilities in September and October.
The West Plains VA clinic will offer flu shots from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its location, 1801 E. Highway K. Interim coordinator for the veterans influenza campaign, Diane Stark, noted veterans are asked to bring their VA healthcare identification card to the clinic.
A walk-in vaccination clinic in the Poplar Bluff campus lobby, located at 1500 N. Westwood Blvd., is open 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. weekdays through Nov. 15. Additionally, a drive-thru clinic will be held at the facility’s north entrance from 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. weekdays between Sept. 23 and Oct. 4.
The drive-thru option makes the process easy for veterans and saves them time, according to Stark. “Drive thru and fight the flu,” said Stark. “We’re quick and convenient, so come see us.”
Any veteran wishing to receive an updated COVID-19 or other vaccination on the same day may do so. However, Stark recommends they get their flu shot first, then go to their primary care provider for any additional vaccines.
Veterans unable to attend one of the flu shot clinics can receive their vaccination at their next primary care appointment, or they may get it at no cost from a community provider by showing their ID card. VA-approved, in-network providers can be found online at www/va.gov/find-locations.
For more information about services and programs available at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center or its outpatient clinics, call 573-686-4151 or visit www.va.gov/poplar-bluff-health-care.