Rutherford County health department reports free flu shots, launches infant safe‑sleep class; director to leave for promotion

John Blair, assistant public health county director, told the Rutherford County Health & Education Committee on March 25 that the Rutherford County Health Department continues to offer free flu vaccines during walk‑in hours and is partnering with Middle Tennessee State University’s School of Nursing to offer a free infant safe‑sleep class on April 11 at the Murfreesboro Health Department.

The announcement included specific availability: "Our flu vaccines are still free of charge at the Health Department. They are available during our walk in hours between 8 to 10AM and 1 to 3PM Monday through Friday," Blair said. He described the April 11 class and said, "This informative session will cover the ABCs of safe sleep, which is alone, on their back, and in a crib, and provide practical tips to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, SIDS, and other sleep related dangers."

Blair also addressed recent media reports about a measles case in Middle Tennessee. He said county health officials are still investigating location details and urged consultation with medical providers on vaccination, noting the protective effect of the MMR vaccine: "Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles."

Committee members praised Blair after he disclosed he is leaving for a promotional opportunity in Nashville. A committee member congratulated him on the promotion and asked about a replacement; Blair said county health conducted interviews for a county director and expects a decision soon and will notify the committee when it is public.

The committee approved Blair’s report by voice vote and moved on to other agenda items.