September 28, 2010

 

Say “BOO” to the flu — just drive through!

HVA and WCPH host drive-through flu shot clinic

South Side Businesses offer trick or treating fun afterward

 

Washtenaw County Public Health and Huron Valley Ambulance are hosting Washtenaw County’s third annual “drive-through” flu shot clinic. This clinic will provide the all-in-one flu shot available this year. This unique clinic allows people to stay in their cars while they receive their shots. It will be held on Saturday, October 30^th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Huron Valley Ambulance, 1200 State Circle, in Ann Arbor. This year’s clinic is sponsored by Sam’s Club, Ypsilanti; Sprint, Ann Arbor; and South Side Businesses, Ann Arbor.

 

This year, after people get their shots, they will receive a Trick or Treat goodie bag and a map to neighboring South Side Businesses. Visitors to those businesses can get a free car wash, collect stickers for chances to win a flat screen TV and other prizes, and let the kids go “trick or treating”. For more info, visit www.annarborsouthside.com or email southsidebiz@gmail.com.

 

At the clinic, Health Department nurses and HVA paramedics will administer flu shots in one of HVA’s drive-through garage bays. Inside the garage, two health care teams will screen people, collect payment and administer shots in a “pit crew” style while people remain in their cars.

 

The clinic is only for those 18 years old and up. Flu shots are $20.00, payable by cash only. Medicare Part B and Medicaid will also be accepted with appropriate identification. Please dress appropriately to allow easy access to your upper arms. No pets allowed in cars due to safety concerns.

 

For more flu clinic information, please call WCPH at 734-544-6700.

 

Influenza (commonly called the “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It is primarily spread when an infected person coughs near a susceptible person. It can cause mild to severe illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths occur nationwide every year due to flu complications.

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination every year. Even healthy adults can contract it, missing work and spreading it to family, friends and co-workers. This year the CDC is recommending a flu shot for everyone over the age of six months.

 

Washtenaw County Public Health Department

The Washtenaw County Public Health Department works locally to prevent disease, promote health, prolong life, and protect communities. WCPH shares a two-century-old national public mission to enhance sanitary conditions, protect the environment, prevent and control disease, and promote healthy lifestyles. Learn more about the Health Department at http://publichealth.ewashtenaw.org/.

 

To see or print a PDF of a Flu Shot Clinic flyer, click here. For further information, please contact Joyce Williams, HVA Public Affairs Manager at 734-477-6285 or email her at jwilliams@hva.org.