Milwaukee city leaders stress importance of flu shots this season

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – There's a push nationally and now locally encouraging people to get a flu shot during the pandemic. 

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee Health Commissioner Jeanette Kowalik held a news conference on Thursday, Sept. 17 about the importance of protecting yourself from the flu and COVID-19. 

Experts recommend all people older than 6-months get an annual influenza vaccination.

Kowalik said it is important for people to continue wearing face coverings and get a flu vaccination as another layer of protection.

"We know that everyone's not wearing masks. in the city of Milwaukee cares masks ordinance, we're targeting businesses that are non-compliant. We're not targeting individuals. So every time you see someone that's not wearing a mask, just think they may be spreading the virus, whether it's the flu, whether it's COVID, whether it's some other viral illness," Kowalik said. 

At the news conference, both Barrett and Kowalik got their flu shots.

The Milwaukee Health Department will be offering free flu shots at its health clinics starting Oct. 5.