Flu shot clinics aim to prevent seasonal illness in northeast Indiana communities

FORT WAYNE, Ind. - Sept. 9, 2026 - Parkview Physicians Group (PPG) is now offering flu shot clinics at multiple northeast Indiana locations for both patients and the public to protect themselves ahead of the upcoming flu season.

Flu shots will be available for individuals aged 6 months and older, including the regular trivalent vaccine that covers three flu strains and the high-dose vaccine recommended for those aged 65 and older, who may have a less robust immune response.

"Each year, as many as 1 in 5 Americans gets influenza (the flu) - anywhere between 5% and 20% of the population," said Dr. Amy Beth Kressel, medical director of Infection Prevention, Parkview Health. "At best, they feel miserable and miss work. At worst, they need critical care and may die. Even people who recover from the flu have increased risk of stroke or heart attack afterward. The flu vaccine protects against the most severe effects of the flu."

While some people may happen to get the flu even after they've been vaccinated, the vaccine still provides strong protection against hospitalization and death. A person may come down with "the flu" despite vaccination if they were exposed to the flu before getting the shot, if they were exposed after getting the shot but before it has a chance to boost their immunity, or if they've contracted a different respiratory virus with symptoms that are similar to those of influenza.

"Think about the flu vaccine like the protections built into your car - anti-lock brakes, air bags and seat belts," Kressel continued. "While no one claims that these protections are perfect, American cars are much safer for drivers now than before those protective features were included. The flu vaccine won't protect everyone from all influenza, but overall, being vaccinated reduces the chance of getting sick and substantially reduces the risk of severe illness and death."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises everyone six months and older to get vaccinated, particularly those at higher risk for severe complications. This includes older adults, pregnant women, young children, and individuals with heart, lung or kidney disorders, as well as chronic conditions like asthma, obesity or weakened immune systems.

Children under age 5 - especially those younger than 2 - are at a higher risk for serious flu complications. While older children are generally not at high risk themselves, they can still transmit the virus to more vulnerable family members. The flu can spread starting a day before symptoms appear and up to seven days after becoming sick.

For a complete list of 2026 flu shot clinic locations and hours at Parkview facilities, visit parkview.com/flu.

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. To make an appointment, call 1-877- PPG-TODAY (877-774-8632). For individuals with healthcare coverage, insurance will be billed; otherwise, individuals will be billed for the shot fee.

Reminders:

• Guests should wear clothing that allows clinic volunteers easy access to their upper arm to administer the vaccinations.
• Those experiencing symptoms of illness - such as sore throat, runny nose, cough, sneezing, fever, fatigue, muscle aches and/or headache - are asked not to receive a vaccine until symptoms are no longer present.