Flu season is upon us, and the Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), a key part of Jefferson Health, is taking a proactive stand to safeguard the community’s health with its annual drive-thru flu shot clinics. This service, which has been offered consistently for the last 28 years, will be available in October at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Hecktown Oaks and the Integrated Health Campus. Free influenza vaccinations will be administered to adults and children aged 6 months and over, and no registration will be required.
As part of this ongoing commitment, over the past 27 years, LVHN has successfully administered nearly 215,000 free flu shots through its community influenza vaccination campaign. Dr. Alex Benjamin, LVHN’s Chief of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, emphasizes the importance of annual vaccinations due to the high number of serious illnesses that can be prevented. The shot clinic offers a quick and convenient way for individuals and families to get vaccinated against flu in their car.
Vaccination sessions will take place at LVH–Hecktown Oaks located in Lower Nazareth Township on Saturday, October 11, and the Integrated Health Campus in Upper Macungie Township on Sunday, October 12, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
People planning to receive a flu shot are advised to review the vaccine information statement and complete a consent form beforehand. These forms can be accessed and printed at LVHN.org/flushot. Consent forms will also be available at the drive-thru clinics.
In a spirited initiative to promote community support, LVHN is partnering with local food banks and shelters. Unexpired, nonperishable food donations will also be accepted at the drive-thru clinics. This move not only advances public health but also aids those in need with food supplies and items like personal hygiene products, diapers, coffee pods, and disinfectant wipes. Regardless, food donation is not a condition for receiving the flu shot service.
LVHN has devised an inclusive method to meet the varied needs of the public. Individuals within the age bracket of 6 months to 64 years will receive a standard dose of flu vaccine while those aged 65 and older will be administered the high-dose vaccine for better protection.
Brenda Croll-Stachelek, LVHN’s Director for Infection Control and Prevention, expressed pride for the dedicated clinicians and staff who have volunteered for this valuable community event. Caring for the community transcends hospital walls and is manifested in initiatives like these, she explained.
For a seamless experience, individuals planning to receive a flu shot should wear loose-fitting clothing for easy access to arms (or legs for children under the age of 2). Information on the vaccination routes for LVH–Hecktown Oaks and Integrated Health Campus can be located at LVHN.org/flushot.
Source: https://www.lvhn.org/news/lvhn-offer-free-drive-thru-flu-shots-october