Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) and YMCAs across the state helped Nebraskans fight the flu this season by hosting 20 free flu shot clinics throughout October.

“Flu shots are just as crucial this year as every other year,” said Dr. Josette Gordon-Simet, chief medical officer at BCBSNE. “We are so glad we could partner with YMCAs to help protect Nebraskans from what is looking to be a severe flu season.”

Clinics were open to everyone age 6 and up at no cost to them, regardless of health insurance coverage, and Hy-Vee mobile clinic pharmacists administered a total of 535 flu vaccinations over the four-week period.

“This is what community is all about,” said Missy Kinzie, executive director of the Southwest YMCA. “Thank you to BCBSNE and Hy-Vee for partnering with the Southwest YMCA for the flu shot clinic. We were able to serve many in our neighborhood.”

In addition to the 18 YMCA locations, clinics were also hosted at BCBSNE’s headquarters in Aksarben Village in Omaha and the Healthy Blue Welcome Center in Norfolk.

“With the addition of five more locations hosting clinics this year, we were able to give out 30% more vaccinations,” said Kathy Nellor, health transformation leader at BCBSNE. “Thank you to everyone who made these clinics happen and helped keep Nebraskans that much safer.”

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