LAMC Hosting Free Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic On Saturday, October 5th
September 3, 2024
LOS ALAMOS, NM (September 3, 2024) – Los Alamos Medical Center is pleased to announce it will once again host its annual free drive-thru community flu shot clinic from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 5th at the hospital at 3917 West Road in Los Alamos.
The flu vaccine will be administered in a drive-thru configuration that will not require people to get out of their vehicle. This clinic is for ages 18 and older only; children will not be inoculated. High-dose vaccines will be available for those who are 65 and older, as supplies last.
Attendees are asked to follow the signage at the hospital and follow instructions to receive their free vaccination. While this is a first-come, first-serve clinic, hundreds of doses are available so attendees are asked not to begin arriving before 7:30 a.m., as that will interfere with the setup of the clinic. No insurance card is required and recipients will receive documentation of their immunizaton.
Flu vaccination is the single-best way to protect yourself and others from influenza viruses. While it is still possible to contract the flu after being vaccinated, studies show that vaccinations can make your illness less severe if you do get sick. Getting vaccinated also affords you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re doing everything you can to protect yourself against the flu.
“At Los Alamos Medical Center, one of the essential ways we’re making communities healthier is by ensuring that you are aware of the ways you can protect yourself, your family and our community from preventable diseases like the flu,” said Tracie Stratton, CEO of Los Alamos Medical Center. “Offering this drive-thru clinic is just one of the many ways we give back to our community. We look forward to seeing you there.”
Although everyone is susceptible to the flu, some individuals are at greater risk of developing complications from these viruses, including children younger than five years old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, and those with certain medical conditions like asthma, heart disease and blood disorders.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, September and October are the best times for most people to get vaccinated against the flu.
In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several other ways you can protect yourself and your family, and help prevent the spread of flu and other infections like COVID-19 during flu season and year-round, including:
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds, or using a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol-based
- Wearing a face mask in indoor, public spaces
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Avoiding sharing food, cups or eating utensils
- Regularly disinfecting your home and belongings, such as doorknobs, light switches, children’s toys and play areas
- Staying home from school or work if you are sick to prevent the spread of germs
- Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow, and NOT your bare hands
- Calling your primary care provider with any questions