Arkansas Free Flu Shot Clinics 2025-2026: Locations & Medical Exemption Guide

Arkansas Free Flu Shot Clinics 2025-2026: Locations & Medical Exemption Guide

For the 2025-2026 flu season, the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) is making it easy for all residents to get vaccinated. Free flu shots are available across the state, regardless of insurance status. This guide provides a list of walk-in clinic locations and details the official process for obtaining a medical exemption.

Statewide Free Flu Shot Program at a Glance

The core of Arkansas's program is accessibility. Free flu shots are offered at all Local Health Units (LHUs) across the state.

  • Eligibility: All Arkansas residents aged 6 months and older.
  • Cost: Free, regardless of insurance coverage.
  • When: Starting September 26, 2025, with a special "Flu Week" campaign from September 23-29.
  • How: Walk-in (no appointment needed) at your local health unit. Just bring a form of ID.

Free Clinic Locations by Region

Little Rock - Pulaski County Health Unit 3915 W 8th St, Little Rock, AR Free walk-in clinic during business hours. ID required.
Fayetteville - Washington County Health Unit 3270 N Wimberly Dr, Fayetteville, AR Free walk-in clinic available weekdays.
Rogers - Benton County Health Unit 1200 W Walnut St, Rogers, AR Free walk-in clinic for all Benton County residents.
El Dorado - Union County Health Unit 301 American Rd, El Dorado, AR Hosts special free walk-in clinic events (e.g., Sep 23). Open to all residents.
Rison - Cleveland County Health Unit 409 Sycamore St, Rison, AR Hosts free walk-in events (e.g., Sep 25) for the community.
Schools & Universities Campuses like Arkansas Tech, U of A, and school districts like LRSD and Cabot. Host free clinics for students, staff, and often the general public. Check school announcements for dates.

How to Apply for a Medical Exemption

For individuals who cannot receive the flu vaccine for medical reasons, Arkansas has a formal exemption process. This is required for students, healthcare workers, and others subject to immunization mandates.

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Complete the Official Form: Use the current year's (2025-2026) exemption application from the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH).
  2. Obtain a Doctor's Letter: Attach a signed letter from your physician stating the specific medical reason(s) why the vaccine is contraindicated.
  3. Notarize Your Signature: The applicant's (or legal guardian's) signature on the application form must be notarized.
  4. Acknowledge Vaccine Information: You must read the CDC's Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) and sign an acknowledgment.
  5. Submit to ADH: Send the complete packet to the ADH Immunization Section. Incomplete applications will be returned.

Important Notes:

  • Exemptions are only valid for one flu season and must be renewed annually.
  • The review process takes up to 10 business days.
  • Only the ADH can grant an official medical exemption.
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