“The shot is for anyone who wants to stay healthy,” Oliveri said. “It’s definitely the most effective way to prevent getting the flu, and it’s the most effective way to prevent passing on the flu.”
AARP and Jewel Osco sponsored flu vaccines for Englewood residents over 50 at the Englewood Salvation Army on Wednesday. Those who were covered by Medicare received the shot for free, while those that did not have coverage paid $24.99.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, five percent to 20 percent of the population gets the flu each year. On average, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications, and about 36,000 die from flu-related causes.
“Even young people are at risk,” said Amir Masood, a Jewel Osco pharmacist.
Englewood Ruth Jackson, 77, and husband Earl, 78, were among the approximate 10 people to receive a vaccine on Wednesday.
“We receive our flu shots every year,” Ruth Jackson said.
In addition to Englewood, AARP and Jewel Osco are hosting free flu vaccines in Chicago’s Brunswick and Austin communities.
“It is important to give people an opportunity to be healthy in these tough economic times,” said Carmenza Millan, an AARP spokeswoman. “If you don’t have your health, you don’t have anything.”
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