Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the start of flu season has fallen under the radar of many, this year. Central Peninsula Hospital hopes to prepare residents of the Kenai Peninsula by offering a free drive thru flu shot clinic for adults. It will be held this afternoon from 3:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Shots will be administered on a first come, first serve basis, while supplies last.
The process is completely free. Dana McDonald with CPH has details on how to begin: “It’s gonna be at the Central Peninsula Hospital Parking garage. We do ask people to start lining up on Fireweed Street, and then they’ll be instructed on how to enter in through the parking garage. So, we do ask people, if you’re sick or not feeling well, or if you’ve been instructed to be on quarantine or isolation, to please remain at home. There will be other opportunities to get a flu vaccine when you’re feelin well. You can go to your primary care provider, there are pharmacies that provide it. We’re also asking that people wear a face covering while they’re in their vehicle receiving the vaccine. All people in the car, please wear a mask or face covering. If you don’t have one, we will provide one for you.”
She also says that vaccinations, while not guaranteed to keep folks from getting sick, are still important: “With a vaccine, it’s not 100% perfect, but it is a very good vaccine – it definitely can help prevent the spread of influenza. It also can help you. Some people do get the flu vaccine but they still get sick. They typically have milder symptoms and they’re able to return to work or return to school sooner. We just ask that people do get a flu vaccine during this season. Also, remember washing your hands is excellent. Wearing that face covering, at this time, and also staying home when you’re not feeling well. All of those things put together can really help prevent the spread of influenza.”
CPH is also urging Kenai Peninsula residents follow the same Centers for Disease Control guidelines that most Alaskans have been adhering to all-year: maintain good hygiene, wash hands regularly, and stay home from work or school if feeling sick. McDonald notes that COVID-preventative measures helped curb the flu earlier this year: “Whenever COVID hit a little bit harder there in March, people started wiring a mask and socially distancing, and we did see our flu rates go down dramatically during that time. So, we do know that social distancing, washing your hands, covering your cough, wearing a mask – actually can help prevent other viruses, too.”
The flu shot clinic is for adults age 18 and older who are currently not feeling sick.