Local residents who have used the drive-thru
locations to get their flu shot recently have been pleased with the
convenience. “The drive-thru is a good option for those who have
difficulty walking or standing, or who are using oxygen,” said Susan
Goffard, RN, BSN, Sarasota County Health Department community adult
immunization coordinator.
November
Drive-thru flu shot locations
Public health officials plan to activate
the drive-thru PODs should a disease outbreak on the scale of a global
pandemic or biological attack occur in our community. These efforts
would be coordinated with Sarasota County Emergency Management.
Sarasota Flu and Pneumonia Coalition
partner organizations Maxim Healthcare Services, Optima Health Care,
Sarasota Health Care, Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), Sarasota
Memorial Health Care Systems, Nokomis Walk-In, Sarasota Immediate Care
Walk-In and Sarasota Family Medical Walk-In clinics continue to provide
many other flu shot opportunities. The cost of flu shots at these
locations is $25 and $30, depending on the provider. Pneumonia vaccine
will be $45. Cash and check are accepted. If you have Medicare B, bring
a copy of your card with you.
Other ways to prevent the flu include:
- Wash hands often with soap and water
or an alcohol-based hand cleanser.
- Cover cough or sneeze with tissue or
the inside of your elbow.
- Stay home when sick and keep sick
children home.
Call the Sarasota County Health
Department’s flu information line 941-861-2800 or visit their Web site:
www.sarasotahealth.org for a
schedule of flu shot clinics including other drive-thru locations. Those
who are hearing impaired can call the Sarasota County Call Center, TDD
line at 941-861-1833. |
