AURORA, Ill., Sept. 30, 2020 — As flu season begins amid COVID-19, health officials are raising awareness about the increased importance of flu shots this year due to the ongoing presence of the coronavirus.

In an effort to provide convenient access to flu vaccinations, VNA Health Care and the City of Aurora are teaming up to offer Flu Shot Drive-Thru Clinics every Friday in October.

Located at Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, the clinics will be offered to everyone over the age of four years old. No appointments are necessary. VNA is accepting all insurance, and there will be no co-pay or deductible. Vaccinations will be free for individuals without insurance.

“VNA is dedicated to improving access to care for our neighbors and protecting their health has been especially important during this global pandemic,” said Linnea Windel, President and CEO, VNA Health Care. “By offering these free flu vaccination community events, in addition to our daily drive-thru clinics at our health centers, we hope that everyone will get their flu shot to protect themselves, their families and vulnerable members of their community. VNA appreciates this partnership with the City of Aurora to make getting a flu shot easy for everyone.”

Morning clinics are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays, October 2, 16 and 30. Afternoon clinics are available from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, October 9 and 23.

“As we plan for the flu season amid COVID-19, it is important we provide our community easy and accessible opportunities to get flu shots,” said Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin. “We are grateful for the work of VNA Health Care and the partnership to offer #FluShotFridays in October. I am encouraging every Auroran to get a flu shot this season and help to keep the City of Lights healthy, safe and strong.”

Health departments warn that flu and COVID-19 each can cause severe respiratory illness and co-infection could possibly lead to more severe illnesses, hospitalization, and even death.

“It is more important than ever to get a flu shot,” said Kane County Health Department Assistant Director for Public Health Nursing Theresa Knauf. “This season, we are also battling COVID-19. A flu vaccine can help you avoid co-infection with COVID-19 and flu.”

Volunteer opportunities are available to assist with distributing information to those waiting in line for flu shots. Register to volunteer at www.aurora-il.org/service.