Help is here for those who still need to get their flu shots. On Saturday, Oct. 25, MedStar Health is hosting its 9th annual drive-thru flu vaccination clinic from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Medstar Harbor Hospital orthopedic center.
Anyone over the age of 18 can get a free flu vaccine from volunteer clinicians. The process is safe and convenient, and people do not even need to get out of their cars. The shot is administered directly through the open car window.
“Getting a flu shot each year is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your family, and the community from seasonal influenza,” said Chris Roberge, MS, RN, clinical quality manager at MedStar Harbor Hospital. “We are proud to offer this free clinic as part of our ongoing commitment to community health.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says influenza is a contagious respiratory illness affecting the United States population mostly between October and May. While anyone can get the infection, those most at risk are children, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
Complications from the flu include pneumonia, bronchitis, ear and sinus infections, and worsened preexisting medical conditions such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Flu symptoms usually include one or more of the following: fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, and in some children, gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.
In the U.S., flu contributes to thousands of deaths and many more hospitalizations each year, and vaccination remains the most effective tool for prevention. This year’s flu vaccine is designed to protect against the viruses that research indicates will be most common this season, including Influenza A (H1N1), Influenza A (H3N2), and Influenza B/Victoria lineage.
Those planning to attend the drive-thru clinic should wear short sleeves or clothing with easy access to the upper arm.
The Medstar Harbor Hospital orthopedic center is located at 2900 S. Hanover Street, Baltimore, MD.
