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Students, families and community members get flu vaccine thanks to Health Net and LAUSD partnership

Date: 10/29/22

The flu can make you feel miserable. Coronavirus could be deadly. Getting them both at the same time? That's something no one should have to face.

Which is why Health Net teamed up with the Los Angeles Unified School District. They're offering free flu shots to LAUSD students, their families and community members at large.

"At Health Net, we believe every person deserves a safety net for their health, regardless of age, income, employment status or current state of health," said Brian Ternan, President and CEO of Health Net of California and California Health and Wellness. "That's why we're working side by side with the Los Angeles Unified School District to ensure hundreds of families across LA County have a safe and easy way to get their flu shots."

The good news this year is that many people are already socially distancing due to COVID-19. Handwashing and sanitizing are on the rise. Many people are wearing face coverings, too. These tactics can also help slow the spread of influenza.

But even so, the flu shot is a critical component to keeping the flu at bay. This is especially true with our most vulnerable populations. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the flu season typically runs from December to February in the United States. Between 9 million and 49 million people get sick each year. Roughly 200,000 of those people land in the hospital.

This is yet another good reason to get your flu shot. It helps keep hospitals from overcrowding during COVID-19.

"People really do need to take precautions during this particular flu season," said Dr. Alex Chen, Chief Medical Officer at Health Net. "Typically it is recommended that everyone over 6 months of age get the flu vaccine. This year, especially, medical experts across the county are urging people to get the vaccine in the hopes of helping avoid a "twin-demic" situation – having the flu and coronavirus at the same time."

"We want to encourage all essential workers, adults age 65 and older, and young children to get their flu shots as soon as possible. Thanks to the support of LAUSD, we are pleased to provide families a quick and easy way to do this. Health Net is committed to helping people stay safe and healthy during this critical flu season."

These flu clinics serve LAUSD students and families, but they are open to anyone in the community at no cost. Some locations require registering first; others take walk-ups. Please check the flu clinic schedule to see when Health Net will be in your area.

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