"The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is by getting this year's flu shot," said Riverside County Health Officer Dr. Eric Frykman.
The walk-in flu clinics will be open from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is no cost for the flu vaccines; however, donations are accepted.
If you would like information on where to get a flu shot in Riverside County call (888) 246-1215 or visit: http://www.rivco-diseasecontrol.org/SeasonalInfluenza.
The /*Centers for Disease Control*/ estimates influenza accounts for up to 200,000 hospitalizations and 24,000 deaths in the United States every year. Symptoms of the flu include coughs, fevers, headaches and muscle aches.
A Los Angeles man in his 30s is the first confirmed case of locally acquired flu in Los Angeles County. "This confirmed case marks the beginning of a flu season that can stretch from now until May of next year," said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, director of Los Angeles County Public Health Department.
"Now is an excellent time to get your annual flu vaccine. The earlier you get your seasonal flu vaccine, the sooner you will be protected from the flu," said Fielding.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will begin holding free flu vaccine clinics near the end of October for people without insurance or another source of health care.
City News Service contributed to this story.
