TROY — With flu season fast approaching now is the time to secure your flu vaccine and practice preventative measures to avoid getting sick.

Residents of Miami County and the surrounding area without health insurance or a high-deductible insurance plan may walk into Health Partners Free Clinic located at 1300 N. County Rd 25-A in Troy, for a free flu shot.

No appointment is necessary and shots will be available on a first come, first served basis Monday through Thursday between 8:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. The clinic is closed from noon to 1 p.m. daily for lunch.

The CDC recommends getting a flu shot as the first and most important action in reducing your risk of flu and its potentially serious outcomes. Other precautions include avoiding others who are sick, covering sneezes and coughing, washing hands frequently, and spending time outdoors versus indoors. You should also avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose to prevent the spread of germs.

According to the CDC, September and October are the ideal time to get a flu shot, and all flu shots should be administered before the end of October.

“Getting a flu shot is a win-win,” says Health Partners Free Clinic Pharmacist Josh Pearson. “It protects you and it protects others, and it’s free.”

Health Partners Free Clinic provides high-quality health care for the uninsured and underserved residents of Miami County and beyond. All services the clinic provides, including medications, are free of charge. The organization has served the community for 25 years.

To learn more about Health Partners Free Clinic, visit www.healthpartnersclinic.org or call 937-332-0894.