NEWPORT — The North Country Hospital Flu Clinic task force didn’t let the pandemic stop them from creating an ideal venue for providing the flu vaccine to community members of all ages.
Over the course of three separate clinics, at various times of the day, more than 1,100 people took advantage of the opportunity at the Derby Elks Club.
“We had many first-timers this year who had never received the flu vaccine in the past but felt it was important to do everything possible in order to protect themselves from the flu,” said North Country Primary Care Clinical Manager, Karen Silvestri, RN.
Silvestri said they saw families arrive together, including grandparents, parents, and children, and the feedback was they enjoyed being able to do this as a family.
“We certainly saw many children who were much more relaxed when receiving their own vaccine after watching the adults in their family receive one. The set up allowed us to vaccinate a number of our elderly patients right in their vehicle, and we were happy to provide this particular service.”
Community members could easily remain physically distanced, enter one door, and exit another.
Efficient environmental services staff sanitized every surface between patients, both at registration and where vaccines were administered.
Silvestri reports that for those who missed the flu clinics, North Country Primary Care has plenty of flu vaccine available and will offer it at any upcoming provider appointments in the clinic, both in Newport and Barton/Orleans.
“North Country Pediatrics recommends all children and their family members to get their flu vaccine,” said Sarah McAuliff, MD. “Getting vaccinated protects you and others.”
If your child missed the community flu clinics, an appointment can be made at 802-334-5929 for pediatric patients at the office.
For additional community flu clinic options, contact the local VT Department of Health field office at 802-334-6707, or visit www.healthvermont.gov.
