The Long County Health Department will offer free tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine for those 19 and older, without insurance, and free blood pressure checks and blood glucose screens for all ages from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 9, at the Long County Health Department located at 584 North Macon Street in Ludowici.
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis – also known as whooping cough – are serious diseases. Tetanus (lockjaw) can cause painful muscle tightening in the head and neck; diphtheria can cause a thick coating to form in the back of the throat that can lead to breathing problems; and pertussis can cause severe coughing spells. All of these disease can lead to very serious health complications. Although most children receive vaccine at an early age to shield them from tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, protection from the vaccine can begin to wear off in later years.
The Long County Health Department will offer the Tdap vaccine at no cost to those 19 and older, without insurance, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 9, at the health department on North Macon Drive in Ludowici. Health department staff will also be on hand provide free blood pressure screens for all ages. No appointment is necessary. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
