A Little Shot Goes a Long Way – Stay Healthy This Flu Season

DURANT, Okla. – As flu season approaches, Choctaw Nation Health Services encourages everyone to take a simple but powerful step to protect themselves, their families, and their community, by getting the annual flu vaccine.

The flu shot remains the best defense against influenza, reducing the risk of illness, hospitalization, and serious complications. With new strains emerging each year, the 2025 vaccine has been updated to provide the most effective protection possible.

“Getting the flu shot not only protects you, but also those around you, including children, elders, and people with chronic health conditions who are more vulnerable to severe illness,” said Jason Hill, D.O., chief medical officer for Choctaw Nation Health Services. “It’s a safe, proven way to keep our communities healthy.”

Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone ages six months and older. According to Hill, it is especially important for pregnant women, young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions to get vaccinated early in the season.

The Choctaw Nation nurses will be available to administer the flu vaccine at the following dates and times at no charge to anyone in the community. No appointment is necessary:

Oct. 3 and Oct. 4, 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Antlers Deer Festival
610 SW D St
Antlers, OK 74523

Oct. 3 and Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Bigfoot Festival
37529 Indian Rte 144
Honobia, OK 74549

Oct. 31, Noon-5p.m. and Nov. 1, 9 a.m. – Noon
Choctaw Nation Powwow
3702 Choctaw Rd
Durant, OK 74701

Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Talihina Fall Festival
803 Railroad St
Talihina, OK 74571