Free DTAP vaccinations available for uninsured adults

Thursday, January 31, 2013

McCOOK, Nebraska -- The Red Willow County Health Department has Tdap vaccine available for adults. Tdap, Tetanus, Diphtheria and acellular Pertussis is currently recommended by the Centers for Disease Control as a one-time booster for all adults.

"Pertussis is often referred to as whooping cough and is especially dangerous for infants and young children," states Peggy Everitt, RN, Public Health Nurse. "As an adult, by protecting yourself against pertussis you are also protecting infants, children, the elderly, and those around you from this disease."

Free adult Tdap vaccine is available through the Americares program. Adults who are eligible for free Tdap vaccine are those without insurance.

Americares was founded by Robert C. McCauley in 1982 as a charitable organization assisting with medical concerns and disasters throughout the world. The Americares program aims to prevent the spread of whooping cough by providing access to those who might not otherwise be able to afford the vaccine.

Tdap vaccines are provided at the Red Willow County Health Dept. in the Ag Complex at the Red Willow County Fairgrounds 1400 West 5th Street. Hours of operation are 8 -- 4 Monday through Friday.

Free children's vaccines remain available through the Vaccines for Children program for children without insurance or whose insurance does not cover vaccines, or those enrolled in Medicaid. Private vaccines are also offered for adults and children who have insurance that covers vaccines. Red Willow County Health Department accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare part B insurance. For more information, or to schedule an appt, call 308-345-1790. Walk-ins are welcome.

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