Murfreesboro, TN - Flu season is creeping in, but Rutherford County residents have a chance to fight back—without spending a dime. On Tuesday, October 21, the Rutherford County Health Department will be offering free flu shots to the public as part of Tennessee’s 2025 Fight Flu prevention campaign.

No appointment is necessary, and anyone six months or older is welcome to stop by and get vaccinated. It’s a simple step that could make a big difference, especially for those most vulnerable to the flu’s harsh effects—pregnant women, infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

Sydney Butterfield, Director of the Rutherford County Health Department, emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated. “Receiving an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and those around you from the worst outcomes of the flu virus,” she said. “The flu vaccine is safe and effective and helps prepare your body to fight against the flu virus and prevent it from spreading.”

The flu spreads quickly and easily, often through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes. It can also linger on surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and even tissue paper for up to two days. That’s why health officials stress not only vaccination but also good hygiene—washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and staying home when you’re feeling sick.

Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and often include fever, fatigue, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches, and a runny or stuffy nose. While most people recover in a few days, for some, the flu can lead to serious complications.

To learn more about flu prevention and other respiratory illnesses, visit the Tennessee Department of Health’s Fight Flu webpage or go to tn.gov/health/rvi. And mark your calendar—October 21 is your chance to take a quick, easy step toward a healthier season.