COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines Available at Choctaw Nation Health Clinics
Published November 4, 2021
DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority (CNHSA) is providing vaccinations to keep viruses at bay this winter season. Providing both the COVID-19 vaccination and applicable additional doses, along with the seasonal flu vaccine, will protect the community from potentially dangerous viral symptoms.
“The COVID-19 vaccination, with the combination of the seasonal flu vaccination, will help protect everyone from serious illness,” says Clinton Bullock, Chief Pharmacist for CNHSA. “It’s highly encouraged for anyone eligible to get vaccinated. The winter months bring everyone inside, creating more opportunities for viruses to spread quickly.”
The seasonal flu vaccination is available at all Choctaw Nation Clinics for patients with a Certified Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) card.
According to the CDC, it is safe to get a COVID-19 vaccination and flu vaccination at the same time. The data collected shows generally similar possible side effects when given together or alone.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend adults who meet eligibility criteria get a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The booster dose is in addition to the previously approved third dose for immunocompromised patients (potentially receiving four doses of the vaccination), which eligible patients could receive 28 days after their 2nd dose. The patients who received the Pfizer or Moderna brand vaccinations and meet one of the following should get a booster dose six months after their 2nd dose in the initial series or 3rd dose for those who are immunocompromised:
- 65 years and older
- Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings
For patients who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those 18 years and older who were vaccinated two or more months ago. It is approved to “mix and match” any of the three approved vaccinations (Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson), giving patients the freedom to get what is available to them or what they prefer.
You can make an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine by calling 800-349-7026 ext. 6, using your myCNHSA app, or visiting my.cnhsa.com. Call your local clinic for details on how to get your flu vaccine.
About The Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 225,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 13,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Inquiries
Contact Kristina Humenesky for any media relations needs at [email protected].