Drive-thru flu clinic coming to Dover on Oct. 27

The Division of Public Health in Delaware, in partnership with Bayhealth, has announced it will offer free flu vaccines to Delawareans 13-years and older at a drive-thru flu clinic in Dover.

Health officials say that this flu clinic is being run as a preparedness exercise in order for DPH staff to practice their readiness in the event of a large-scale health emergency.

The vaccination clinic will run from 10AM – 4PM rain or shine on October 27, and a live broadcast by Eagle 97.7 will be at the event from 12:30-3:30PM.

The drive-thru will be set up outside the Blue Hen Corporate Center at 655 South Bay Road in Dover at the south end of the building. Organizers say there will be four vehicle lanes, including some for high-occupancy vehicles.
    
Public Health and Bayhealth nurses will give the intramuscular flu vaccine only to Delewareans 13 and older, and people must remain in their vehicles and receive flu shots through open windows. Pedestrians can also be served, but keep in mind that clients who sign media consent forms may be photographed.

Governor Markell will also be at the event to receive his annual flu vaccination after he holds a press conference.

Those coming to receive a flu shot should wear sleeveless or short sleeved shirts, as nurses must be able to administer the intramuscular flu vaccine in the upper shoulder.  

For faster service, complete the Influenza Vaccination Administration Record form and bring one form per person with you. You can find the form online, however greeters will also have VAR forms on hand.

Organizers say that people who are ill on the clinic day or have been advised not to receive a flu vaccination by their health provider should not participate in this flu clinic. In general, this includes:

• If you have had a severe reaction after receiving the vaccine in the past.
• If you have experienced breathing problems or have an allergy to eggs.
• If you are moderately or severely ill, such as fever.
• If you have fainted after vaccine.

Delawareans with access and functional needs are encouraged to attend and will be accommodated. Also, bilingual staff will be on site to assist in translations in Spanish, French, various African languages, and Haitian Creole. American Sign Language interpreters will also be available.   

Only service animals should attend, other pets should be left at home.    

To learn about additional vaccination opportunities statewide and near you, including those serving younger children, visit Flu Vaccine Finder.

For more information on influenza prevention, diagnosis and treatment, call DPH at 800-282-8672.

For questions about this event, call 302-744-4704.