Mid Coast Times

In the past few years Benton County has experienced relatively mild flu seasons, in part due to widespread precautions we all took against COVID-19. These precautions proved effective against other kinds of respiratory illnesses as well. This year, we are seeing an increase in many common respiratory illnesses, including the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

As we move into the winter flu season, it is important to remember that we already know how best to prevent infections: avoid crowded indoor spaces or wear a high filtration mask like an N95, practice good hygiene by covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and washing your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick, and get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. 

There are vaccines for both COVID-19 and the flu, there is no vaccine for RSV. The COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available through medical providers and most local pharmacies. The Benton County Health Department continues to work with community partners to offer COVID-19 vaccine events throughout the county. The influenza vaccine is not available at these events. To receive both COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time, visit your local pharmacist or medical provider. 

Here is the schedule and details for upcoming COVID-19 vaccine events. Vaccines are available for individuals 6 months and older. The bivalent booster is available for everyone 5 years and older. No appointment is needed:

Corvallis 

• Location: Benton County Event Center & Fairgrounds, Guerber Building, 110 SW 53rd Street
  • Wednesday and Thursday, December 14 and 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • This is an indoor event, and is not a drive-thru

     

• Location: Lincoln Elementary School, 110 SE Alexander Ave
  • Saturday, December 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Free COVID-19 test kits will be available to take home

     

• Location: Boys and Girls Club of Corvallis, 1112 NW Circle Boulevard 
  • Sunday, December 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Free COVID-19 test kits will be available to take home

Philomath

• Location: Clemens Primary School Cafeteria, 535 S 19th Street
  • Friday, December 16, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Free COVID-19 test kits will be available to take home

The COVID-19 vaccine is free, safe, and effective. No identification or health insurance is required. All events are wheelchair accessible. To request additional accommodations, please call 541-766-6120. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/BentonCoGov-VaccinationEvents.

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@co.benton.or.us.

Original source can be found here