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Web posted
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Drive-by flu shots available on Friday
The City-Cowley County Health Department in partnership with South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center will hold a drive-through flu vaccination clinic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday.
This clinic will be held at the Agri-Business Building, 712 W. Washington, and will be staffed by employees from SCKRC and the Health Department. The clinic is open to anyone 18 and older wishing to lower their risk of getting the flu, said David Brazil, administrator of the City-Cowley County Health Department.
Those without Medicaid, Medicare or supplemental health insurance will be charged $30.
While the model used is intended for use during non-emergency, mass influenza vaccination efforts, it can serve as a foundation on which to prepare for larger, public health emergencies. It may also serve as a foundation for drive-through medication distribution.
This mode of vaccination distribution can offer a quick and convenient way for individuals to receive the annual influenza vaccine.
It is particularly suited for those who have physical mobility challenges due to age, disability or health status. It is also convenient for people who have busy schedules making it difficult to set an appointment for a flu shot.
When people drive into the Agri-Business Building, they will do paperwork with a nurse.
Upon completion, they will drive forward and receive the shot, without getting out of their vehicle.
There are three recognized types of influenza viruses; A, B and C, Brazil said in a press release:
"The 2008-09 influenza vaccine can protect you from getting sick from these three viruses, or it can make your illness milder if you get a related but different influenza virus strain."
In the United States, winter influenza epidemics can cause illness in 10-20 percent of people and are associated with an average of 36,000 deaths and more than 200,000 hospitalization per year.
In addition to receiving the flu shot, there are other steps each of us can do to stay healthy during the flu season:
* Clean your hands
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, then use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
* Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
* Stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
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