Tuesday, September 25, 2012

MONROE COUNTY

Flu shots available

The Monroe County Health Department has scheduled two influenza vaccination clinics in the Florida Keys, starting Saturday in Key Largo, at the Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway.

On Oct. 6, a clinic is set for Key West at the Gato Building, 1100 Simonton St.

The clinics run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $20.

For more information, call 305-293-7500.

Flu season can start in October and last through May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine.

KEY WEST

Volunteers needed for beach clean-up

Fury Water Adventures is seeking volunteers from the Keys community to conduct a beach and mangrove cleanup of Boca Grande Key located within the Key West National Wildlife Refuge from 2:30-6:30 p.m, Oct. 7. This and other refuge islands are an important component of the coral reef ecosystem, providing mangrove habitat for countless species of juvenile reef fish, as well as native and migratory birds.

Refuge island beaches also provide nesting areas for endangered sea turtles. An estimated 6 million tons of marine debris is added to oceans each year, causing entanglement and ingestion issues for wildlife and destruction of sensitive habitats. Staff from the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary will be on hand to discuss the roles and importance of the National Wildlife Refuge System and help direct cleanup efforts. This is a free event for the public, space is limited. Sodas, water and snacks will be provided. For more information, call the Fury Call Center 305-294-8899.