Three counties in region offering free vaccinations

SIKESTON, Mo. -- If adults and adolescents spending time with infants haven't received protection against whooping cough, July may be the ideal time to do so.

Local health departments are preparing for Missouri's mass vaccination clinics next month to prevent pertussis -- the highly contagious bacterial disease also known as whooping cough.

Health departments in Scott, New Madrid and Mississippi counties are participating in the event that focuses on immunizing individuals who are 11 years old or older with the tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, or Tdap, booster vaccine.

The immunizations, which can cost up to $40 each, will be free during the clinics.

Scott County will host clinics from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Chaffee Elks, July 10 at Scott City First Assembly of God and July 30 at the Scott County Health Department in Sikeston.

Clinics in New Madrid County will be from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 22 and July 29 at the health department in New Madrid, Mo. These clinics are for New Madrid County residents only.

Mississippi County Health Department has clinics set for July 16, 17 and 31.

Cape Girardeau County will hold vaccinations July 10 at AC Brase Arena Building and Osage Community Center on July 26, both in Cape Girardeau.