by Staff Writer
As flu season approaches, the Carroll County Health Department, in partnership with local organizations, is promoting flu vaccination clinics and providing county-wide resources to help residents stay protected.
Annual flu vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent illness, avoid missed work or school, and reduce the risk of serious flu-related complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends flu shots for everyone aged 6 months and older, with few exceptions. Individuals with severe allergies to the vaccine or its ingredients should consult a healthcare provider, though those with egg allergies are still eligible for vaccination.
Flu vaccinations are especially important for high-risk groups, including young children, seniors over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma or diabetes. The FluMist nasal spray is an alternative option for individuals aged 2 to 49, although it is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions. It can be found at select pharmacies or ordered online for home use.
Vaccination access is available through a variety of providers. Many healthcare offices administer the flu shot, and pharmacists can vaccinate individuals 3 years and older. Adults without insurance can contact Access Carroll at 410-871-1478 for help with vaccination costs. A list of participating pharmacies is available on the Health Department’s website.
The Carroll County Health Department is also offering a series of flu vaccination clinics for children ages 6 months to 18 years throughout October and early November. These clinics require appointments, which can be made at health.maryland.gov/carroll. For help scheduling an appointment, call 410-876-4442, or 410-876-4990 for Spanish-speaking assistance.
The Health Department collects insurance information to help cover the cost of vaccine administration. A small fee may apply on a sliding scale for children without insurance or Medical Assistance, but no child will be turned away due to inability to pay. For more information about flu, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines, visit health.maryland.gov/carroll or follow the Carroll County Health Department on Facebook and Instagram. Updated COVID-19 vaccine information will be posted as it becomes available.
Children’s Flu Clinic Schedule For Carroll County
- Thursday, October 2 | 4:00 – 6:00 PM – Taneytown Elementary School, 100 Kings Dr, Taneytown
- Tuesday, October 7 | 4:00 – 6:00 PM – Mt. Airy Middle School, 102 Watersville Rd, Mt. Airy
- Tuesday, October 14 | 4:00 – 6:00 PM – Spring Garden Elementary School, 700 Boxwood Dr, Hampstead
- Tuesday, October 21 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM – Carrolltowne Elementary School, 6542 Ridge Rd, Sykesville
- Thursday, October 23 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM – Elmer Wolfe Elementary School, 119 N Main St, Union Bridge
- Saturday, November 8 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Carroll County Health Department, 290 S Center St, Westminster
Drive-Thru Clinic Locations In Carroll County
Finksburg Pharmacy will offer convenient drive-through flu clinics at senior centers across the county. Both high-dose and regular flu vaccines will be available. All clinics run from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Attendees should bring all insurance cards and wear short sleeves for easier vaccination. Questions can be directed to Finksburg Pharmacy at 410-526-1055.
- Monday, October 6 – Mount Airy Senior Center, 703 Ridge Ave, Mount Airy
- Tuesday, October 7 – North Carroll Senior Center, 2328 Hanover Pike, Hampstead
- Wednesday, October 8 – South Carroll Senior Center, 5928 Mineral Hill Rd, Eldersburg
- Thursday, October 9 – Taneytown Senior Center, 220 Roberts Mill Rd, Taneytown
- Friday, October 10 – Westminster Senior Center, 125 Stoner Ave, Westminster
