September 30, 2019 3:55 a.m.
Douglas Public Health Network, in partnership with local emergency management and medical personnel, will be providing free flu vaccinations October 19^th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Tri City fire station.
A release from DPHN said the vaccines will be given as part of a drive-through point of dispensing exercise and are available to anyone 6 months and older.
The release said if a widespread disease or other emergency were to occur, it may be necessary for the local health department to activate PODs to dispense large amounts of vaccines, antibiotics, or other medicines to the community. This POD exercise allows county officials to practice emergency plans and is an opportunity for community members to get vaccinated against the flu and be involved in emergency preparedness in Douglas County.
Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer said “influenza comes around every year and can be very dangerous for some seniors, those with weak immune systems and the occasional otherwise healthy child or young adult who gets a severe case of the flu”. He said based on this years’ experience in Australia, this year is predicted to be an average or above average year for the flu. Dannenhoffer said this year’s flu vaccine seems to be well matched for the expected flu viruses. He said “the very best thing you can do to protect yourself and others in the community is to get a flu shot”.
The release said that POD participants will receive flu vaccinations, free of charge and administered by area health professionals. Participants can remain in their vehicle or take advantage of a walk-up option.
Call Douglas Public Health Network at 440-3571 for more information about the event.