The health department offers immunizations for childhood diseases. During influenza season, flu shot clinics are held for persons 6 months and over. Adult Tdap is given as a precaution against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster is recommended every 10 years.

The Dunklin County Health Department provides Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program vaccines for ages 18 and under who meet one of the following criteria:

• Uninsured or Medicaid eligible
• American Indian or Alaskan native
• Underinsured (have insurance that does not cover vaccines or that caps coverage for vaccines, after the maximum coverage has been reached)

Please note the following changes: Since Oct. 1, 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented changes to the policy for vaccines provided through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. As of this date, VFC vaccine cannot be used to immunize fully-insured individuals, defined as anyone with insurance that covers the cost of vaccine, even if:

• The insurance includes a high deductible or co-pay
• A claim for the cost of vaccine and its administration would be denied for payment by the insurance company because the plan's deductible has not been met

The Dunklin County Health Department can bill most health insurance companies for immunizations through VaxCare. For those insurance clients requesting vaccinations and their carrier is not listed on VaxCare approved list, you will have the opportunity to get the immunization under a self-pay category.