The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) will offer flu vaccines free of charge at three different locations on Fight Flu Day on Tuesday, October 21. The effort is part of the statewide Fight Flu TN initiative, offering free flu shots across the state. MPHD began offering flu shots in its three preventive health clinics in September. MPHD recommends all people ages six months and older consider receiving a flu vaccine this year.
"We want to ensure that our residents have access to flu shots and are protected against the flu this season. Removing barriers like cost and location ensures that more people can access a flu shot," said Doctor Sanmi Areola, MPHD Director of Health. "Making flu shots more accessible to the community helps create a Nashville where all people can achieve their full potential of health."
This year's Fight Flu Day includes three separate sites across Nashville with either drive-thru or walk-up availability. The Lentz Public Health Center will serve as a drive-thru clinic, offering flu shots between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot at 2500 Charlotte Avenue. Flu shot clinics will also be offered to walk-ups at the Goodlettsville Branch of the Nashville Public Library from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and at the Madison Branch of the Nashville Public Library from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. In 2024, MPHD offered flu shots at five different locations on Fight Flu Day, administering 635 flu shots in the process.
Fight Flu Day follows MPHD's flu shot clinic held at the Historic Courthouse and City Hall on Thursday, October 9. 68 flu vaccines were administered ahead of the Metro Council meeting. Those who missed the event at the Historic Courthouse and will not be able to participate in Fight Flu Day can receive a flu shot at one of MPHD's three preventive health clinics. Flu vaccines are available by appointment Monday through Friday at the East, Woodbine and Lentz Public Health Centers. Appointments can be made by phone at the following clinics:
- East Nashville Public Health Center, 1015 East Trinity Lane, 615-862-7916
- Lentz Public Health Center, 2500 Charlotte Avenue, 615-340-5607
- Woodbine Public Health Center, 224 Oriel Avenue, 615-862-7940
This year's flu shot is formulated to protect against three separate flu strains. Those who are at high risk of severe illness from influenza are especially encouraged to receive a flu shot. TennCare and Medicare Part B insurance are accepted and fully cover the fee for a flu shot at MPHD. The fee for flu vaccine for adults is $40, and a sliding scale is available for those who qualify. For those in need of the high-dose flu vaccine, the cost is $85, with a sliding scale available. After October 21, flu shots will be available free of charge in MPHD clinics throughout the rest of flu season.