Health Department Hosts Walk in Flu and COVID 19 Vaccine Clinic

The Grand Traverse County Health Department will host a walk in clinic on Thursday, December 11 to provide flu and COVID 19 vaccinations for residents age six months and older. The clinic will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a closure for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Services are open to people with or without insurance, and both appointments and walk ins are welcome. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 231 995 6131.

Health officials emphasized the importance of timely vaccination as the community moves into the peak of respiratory season and the holiday period when families gather and travel. GTCHD Health Officer Mike Lahey urged residents to get vaccinated and noted that it can take up to two weeks for immunity to build after vaccination. That window underscores why getting shots before gatherings can reduce the risk of spreading illness.

Vaccination reduces the likelihood of contracting influenza and COVID 19, and it lowers the risk of severe complications and hospitalizations. For Grand Traverse County, higher vaccination coverage means fewer workplace and school disruptions, reduced strain on local hospitals, and better protection for people at higher risk such as older adults, young children, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions.

Making vaccines available to people regardless of insurance status addresses a common barrier to care and supports health equity across the county. The walk in format and phone appointment option aim to reach residents who face transportation or scheduling obstacles, and to provide an accessible pathway to preventive care as community demand for testing and treatment services rises.

Residents planning to be vaccinated should bring any insurance information if available, and should expect to allow a short observation period after receiving a vaccine. For more information or to schedule a time slot, call the Grand Traverse County Health Department at 231 995 6131. The clinic address is 2600 LaFranier Road.