MVSKOKE RESERVATION – As flu season approaches, the Muscogee Nation Department of Health is taking vaccinations directly to communities through a series of mobile flu vaccine clinics throughout October.
The initiative aims to make preventative healthcare more accessible to citizens and community members, particularly those living in rural areas who may face challenges traveling to medical facilities.
Talia King, a Muscogee citizen and public health nurse, was among the healthcare workers administering flu vaccines during a mobile clinic at Duck Creek Casino on Oct. 6.
King said receiving an annual flu vaccine helps prepare the body’s immune system to recognize and fight influenza, potentially reducing the severity of illness and the risk of serious complications.
“So it builds your immune system when you get the vaccine,” King said. “And so that way whenever you do get the virus, it will help fight that off better for you.”
Although anyone can experience complications from influenza, certain populations face greater risks. King identified young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems as particularly vulnerable.
Annual vaccination is recommended for most people ages 6 months and older, with limited exceptions. Because influenza viruses change over time and immunity decreases, updated vaccination each season provides protection against circulating strains.
Despite the benefits, misconceptions about flu vaccines can discourage some individuals from getting vaccinated. King said one of the most common concerns she encounters is the belief that receiving the vaccine makes people sick with influenza.
“A lot of them will say that it makes them sick, so they choose not to get it, or they don’t want to get it because they got sick,” King said.
She explained that mild symptoms following vaccination can be part of the body’s immune response. Side effects such as soreness, fatigue, or a low-grade fever are generally temporary, and the injectable flu vaccine cannot cause influenza.
Beyond providing vaccinations, the mobile clinics help address transportation and accessibility barriers for patients who may not be able to easily visit a healthcare facility. King said the program has been especially beneficial for older residents living in rural communities.
“We’re getting a lot of our elderly that live way out in the country,” King said. “And they are so thankful that we’re able to get out there and they can just drive a block or two away just to go get it.”
The Department of Health’s mobile vaccination efforts are scheduled throughout October, providing multiple opportunities for community members to receive their annual flu vaccine.
In addition to vaccination, King encouraged residents to practice other preventative measures, including frequent handwashing, avoiding touching their faces, wearing masks in crowded areas, and staying home when experiencing symptoms of illness.
As the mobile clinics continue making stops across the reservation, King emphasized the importance of taking steps to protect individual and community health.
“Just stay protected. Get your flu vaccine,” King said.
Community members can find upcoming mobile vaccination dates and locations through the Muscogee Nation’s 2026 Mobile Flu Vaccine Schedule.
