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Drive-Through Flu Shot Clinic Planned In Hudson

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By Carl  Orth | The Suncoast News

Published: October 11, 2008

HUDSON - West Pasco has plenty of drive-through restaurants, drive-through pharmacies and other businesses where people never have to get out of their cars.

So health officials hope a drive-through clinic next week will encourage people to get flu shots.

The Pasco County Health Department will set up the drive-thru flu shot clinic from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 8014 S.R. 52 in Hudson.

"Come get a flu shot in the comfort of your own car!" a health department flyer proclaims.

Besides the protection against flu bugs, the shots might serve another purpose as well, according to Deanna Krautner, the Health Department's education and communication coordinator.

"The more residents we put through our drive-through, the more practice we get in preparing for a real disaster," Krautner said. Public health workers gain a lot of insights into the coordination needed for disaster response, she said.

Flu shots will be given to individuals 18 years and older. Participants might wear short-sleeve shirts since most shots will be administered in the upper arm.

Flu shots at the drive-through will cost $25, payable by cash or check. With proof of straight Medicare or Medicare PPO, clients can get their shots for free, with the bill going to insurance companies.

For Medicare HMO and all other insurance plans, receipts will be given for the $25 charge so people can try to get reimbursement.

More information on the drive-through flu shot clinic is available on the Health Department Web site, http:// www.doh.state.fl.us/chdpasco/default.html>.

All Children's Hospital is offering simple tips parents can use to keep themselves and their children healthy during flu season. The nonprofit organization operates All Children's Specialty Care of Pasco, 4443 Rowan Road, New Port Richey.

"It's more than just luck that helps kids avoid the flu," spokesman Roy Adams said in a press release. He cited recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control.

•Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after it has been used.

•Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after a cough or sneeze. If water is not near, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

•Remind youngsters not to touch their eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs often spread this way.

Carl Orth can be reached at 727-815-1068 or corth@suncoastnews.com.

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