NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 24, 2020
Another person with underlying health conditions has died from influenza in Kansas City. The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department reports this is the third confirmed case of influenza death in the city. The most recent passing is a person in their 80’s. So far this 2019/2020 flu season, influenza has also been confirmed as cause of death in a patient in their 50’s and another in their 60’s.
The first death in Kansas City from influenza occurred in December. That person was in their 60’s and also had prior health concerns.
“People with underlying health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or compromised immune systems need to realize they are considered high-risk and can develop dangerous complications from influenza,” said Tiffany Wilkinson, Communicable Disease Prevention and Public Health Preparedness Division manager. “For their sake, we encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine not only for individual protection, but to protect those with more vulnerabilities.”
Adults 65 years and older, those at risk of stroke, pregnant women and young children are also considered high-risk.
The Kansas City, Missouri Immunization Clinic at 2400 Troost Ave. offers walk-in flu vaccinations during regular clinic hours. Normal operating hours are:
• 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays
• 8 a.m. – Noon on Thursdays
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccination each year, unless they have a severe allergy to the flu vaccine.
There is no out-of-pocket cost for children and adults who are uninsured or under-insured, or those with Medicaid or Medicare Part B. Those with Medicare Advantage plans will need to go to their primary care physician to be vaccinated.
Most private insurance companies pay the full cost of a flu vaccine, so there should also be no out-of-pocket cost for children and adults with insurance. If the private insurance is not accepted by the department’s system, there will be a fee of $22 for those 6 months to 64-years old. Insured individuals with plans not accepted by the Department that are over the age of 65 and need the high-dose flu shot will be charged $47. Find more information on the flu shot at kcmo.gov/health.
As of Jan. 18, there were 4,179 reported influenza cases in Kansas City.
Media inquiries should be directed to Michelle Pekarsky, 816-719-3610 (cell). Follow the Health Department on Twitter.
