Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE), in partnership with the Central District Health Department (CDHD) and YMCA locations across the state, helped Nebraskans prepare for flu season with no-cost vaccinations.

CDHD clinics

CDHD offered no-cost flu vaccinations to approximately 10,000 students in preschool through 12th grade in collaboration with Grand Island Public Schools (GIPS) and Heartland Health Center (HHC). BCBSNE helped cover the cost of wages for the nurses who administered the vaccines.

CDHD hosted the clinics over a three-week period at 19 GIPS elementary, middle and high school buildings and early childhood centers.

“We’re proud to support the Grand Island community, which has been greatly impacted by COVID-19,” Kathy Nellor, BCBSNE health transformation leader, said. “Flu vaccinations can help protect our health care system and resources from the strain of COVID-19 and the flu. We must all do our part to prevent a twindemic and keep people safe.”

YMCA clinics

BCBSNE and YMCAs across the state teamed up to host 14 flu vaccination clinics in early November. Clinics were open to everyone between ages 9 and 64 at no cost to them, regardless of insurance coverage.

Roughly 350 vaccinations were provided during the clinics.

“BCBSNE and YMCA share a similar mission: Breaking down barriers to protect and improve the health of our community,” Chris Tointon, president and CEO of YMCA of Greater Omaha, said. “It’s an honor to support Nebraskans, especially during this difficult time. I look forward to future collaborations between our organizations.”

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