The Imperial County Public Health Department (ICPHD) held a clinic at Imperial Valley College on September 30, 2025, as part of its 2025-2026 flu vaccination campaign. Students and staff from Imperial Valley College were offered the vaccine during the event to protect them against the seasonal flu. The flu vaccine is recommended for individuals six months and older.

Dr. Stephen Munday, Public Health Officer, stated, “The Public Health Department strongly encourages all individuals who are eligible to get their flu vaccine early to help protect themselves and their loved ones, especially with the holidays approaching, a time when flu activity typically increases due to more frequent gatherings.”

Flu vaccine is available at the Imperial County Public Health Department by appointment or on a walk-in basis during regular work hours (Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm., except holidays.) The cost of the flu vaccine is $2.00. In addition, the department will be offering flu vaccine at various locations throughout Imperial County. Information about upcoming community clinics will be shared at a later date through various platforms, including the Public Health Department’s website and social media. Flu vaccine is also available from most local doctor and pharmacies. Individuals who wish to receive the flu vaccine from their doctor or pharmacy should contact their provider directly to inquire about the availability of flu vaccine.

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness. Signs and symptoms of the flu include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk of developing serious complications. These include adults aged 65 and older, individuals of any age with underlying medical conditions, pregnant people, and children under the age of 5. The most effective way to prevent the flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated every year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 2024-2025 influenza season (September 29, 2024-August 30, 2025) was the most severe since 2017-2018, with data indicating elevated levels of severity across several key indicators, including outpatient visits, hospitalizations, and mortality related to influenza. Additionally, vaccination against other respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, can provide additional protection during the respiratory virus season. For more information about where to receive these vaccines, please contact your medical provider or pharmacist, or visit myturn.ca.gov.

Appointments for flu vaccines at the Imperial County Public Health Department can be scheduled online using the following link: scheduled online using the following link: west.phims.org/imperial/scheduling/selfscheduling.aspx or by calling the department at 442- 265-1444.