Influenza (Flu)

Make an appointment to get your flu shot at Clay County Public Health Center - call 816-595-4355 today!

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of serious flu complications. 

Flu cases typically begin to appear in October and November every year, with "flu season" lasting as late as May. Because so many illnesses like COVID-19, RSV and others also spread during this season, taking steps to prevent spreading germs is extremely important.

Learn how the flu compares to a cold.

Get Your Flu Shot!

Even if flu season has already started, it's not too late to get a flu shot. 

  • A flu shot can prevent illness, medical office visits and hospitalizations that can put additional strain on health care resources and workers.
  • A flu vaccine is the greatest protection available for those at higher risk for developing serious flu complications: pregnant women, people with a chronic health condition, young children, and adults 65 years and older.
  • While some people who get vaccinated still get sick, flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce the severity of illness.

Learn more about the flu vaccine and how it works


Find a Flu Vaccine

Some of the easiest ways to receive a flu shot are at a local pharmacy or with your primary care doctor. The cost of the influenza vaccine should be covered by most insurance policies.

Clay County Public Health Center also offers appointments for flu shots through our Immunization Services. For those that are uninsured or underinsured, CCPHC offers free vaccination for children through the Vaccines for Children program and for adults through the 317 program.

Find more places to a get a flu shot

Are you a veteran? Find flu vaccine options. (Missouri is Region 2)


COVID-19 & Flu

Influenza has similarities to COVID-19 but you can find information to help tell them apart on CDC's website. 

Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine and my flu shot at the same time?
Yes, it is safe to get both during the same appointment.


Flu Reporting

Every year, confirmed cases of influenza are reported to and tracked by Clay County Public Health Center. This year, check out our Syndromic Surveillance dashboard for local updates about influenza.

The Missouri weekly influenza reports can be found here. You can also find national influenza surveillance data here.

Weekly CCPHC flu surveillance reports from previous years can be found here.

Additional Sources of Information


Stick it to the Flu - Get Your Flu Shot Today
La vacuna contra la influenza que se aplicará este año te protegerá a ti y a tu familia.