Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), now part of Jefferson Health, is stepping up in this flu season to offer free influenza vaccinations to both adults and children over the age of 6 months. This community healthcare initiative isn’t a new venture for LVHN, rather, it’s a 28-year tradition serving the health needs of local residents. This massive vaccination campaign will be executed via two drive-through clinics scheduled in October.
On October 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the free flu shots will be available at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH) – Hecktown Oaks, Lower Nazareth Township. On October 12, vaccinations will be dispensed during the same hours at the Integrated Health Campus located in Upper Macungie Township.
This community influenza vaccination campaign has been consistently conducted by LVHN for almost three decades, successfully administering roughly 215,000 free flu shots in that time. Alex Benjamin, MD, Chief of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology at LVHN, offered a stark reminder of the dangers of the influenza virus, pointing out that many of the severely ill patients treated annually are unvaccinated. In his words, getting the annual flu shot is the best defense against serious illness. He urged individuals and families to take charge of their health with the quick, convenient vaccination service, further emphasizing the drive-through clinics’ effort to save lives amidst the flu season.
The process to receive a flu shot at these locations is simple. Individuals need to go to LVHN.org/flushot to read the vaccine information and fill out a consent form, with each gatherer requiring a completed consent form. Those 65 and older will be provided the high-dose vaccine for added protection, while the standard dose will be given to those aged 6 months to 64 years. Additionally, it is recommended prospective attendees wear loose fitting clothing for easy vaccination administration.
LVHN encourages community involvement beyond health, partaking in philanthropic efforts by accepting unexpired, nonperishable food items for local food banks and shelters in tandem with their drive-through sessions. Other essential items such as diapers, personal hygiene products, coffee pods, and disinfectant wipes will also be accepted at these sessions.
LVHN’s Director for Infection Control and Prevention, Brenda Croll-Stachelek, RN, displayed immense pride in the diligent commitment of their clinicians and staff to this indispensable community event. She stated that taking care of the community extends beyond hospital walls and into events such as these that encourage preventive healthcare and proactive action for improved community health.
Source: https://www.lvpnews.com/20251007/lehigh-valley-health-network-free-flu-shots-available-oct-11-12/