Orange County dispensing flu shots by appointment

Goshen — The Orange County Department of Health will hold flu clinics at locations in Newburgh, Goshen and Middletown. The flu shots are available by appointment only. To scheduled an appointment, or for more information about preventing colds and flu, call 291-4300. Each vaccine costs $20, except for patients covered by Medicare Part B, who will receive the vaccination free of charge. “With flu season almost here, there is a lot everyone can do to help prevent getting and spreading germs that cause the flu or common cold,” said Dr. Jean M. Hudson, the county’s health commissioner. “Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing will help. Wash hands often, especially after handling something like a pen or pencil that others have used. Better yet, carry your own to use. Many grocery stores are now providing antiseptic wipes for shopping cart handles. Just in case there aren’t any available, carry some in a pocket or purse. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too. Little things can make a big difference.”