December 5-11 is National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW). NIVW is a national awareness week focused on highlighting the importance of influenza vaccination. It is a call to all Americans 6 months and older to get their annual flu vaccine if they have not already.  

Flu remains a significant public health concern, and this week will serve to remind people that there is still time to get a flu vaccine — the only vaccine that protects against flu — to prevent flu illness and potentially serious complications. 

To learn more about the flu, click here.  

The flu vaccine is available from many providers, including DHEC health departments, doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, schools, and workplaces. For those who have not had either of the two, it is safe to receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. 

Flu vaccines offered at DHEC health department clinics are available by appointment. Call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment or go to scdhec.gov/fluclinics to find the nearest location.  

For other vaccine providers, visit vaccinefinder.org/find-vaccine. More information about preventing the flu is available at scdhec.gov/flu.