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Drive-Through To Combat Flu

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By CARL ORTH

The Suncoast News

Published: October 15, 2008

Pasco County 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 will encourage people to get flu shots.

The Pasco County Health Department will set up the drive-through flu shot clinic from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Thursday at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 8014 State Road 52, Hudson. A second event will be held 9 a.m. to noon Monday at Centennial Middle School, 38505 Centennial Road, Dade City.

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

"Flu vaccines are an effective way to protect ourselves and others," said Pasco County health officer David Johnson, in a news release.

Aside from warding off flu bugs, the event might serve another purpose, said 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 insight 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 because shots are 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 seek reimbursement.

Pasco County residents also may call their private medical provider or contact the health department to schedule an appointment at one of the following locations: Dade City clinic, (352) 521-1450; Zephyrhills clinic, (813) 782-1740; Hudson clinic, (727) 863-2444; New Port Richey clinic (727) 861-5260; and Land O' Lakes clinic, (813) 558-5173.

For information, go to www.doh.state.fl.us/chd pasco/default.html.

CHILD FLU POINTERS

•Cover the nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw it away.

•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.

All Children's Hospital is offering tips for remaining healthy during flu season. The nonprofit organization operates All Children's Specialty Care of Pasco, 4443 Rowan Road, New Port Richey. " Spokesman Roy Adams cited recommendations from the Centers fo

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