October Putnam Influenza Clinic Will Drive Through

Putnam County, NY — The Putnam County Department of Health opened two flu clinics in October, asking everyone to wear short-sleeved shirts.

Like the COVID test clinic earlier this year, the flu clinic will be a “drive-through” event. Short sleeves and pre-scheduled appointments are required to facilitate vaccination and increase overall efficiency. The time zone is from 1 pm to 6:30 pm. The next day is scheduled for a rainy day.

“We need short sleeves to make it easier for nurses to administer the vaccine in a timely manner,” said Kathleen Percatchoro of RN, who oversaw a public health nurse. “This spring, we tweaked the drive-through format at the COVID-19 Test Clinic.”

Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD, said flu shots can reduce the risk of flu disease by 40% to 60% of the total population.
“In addition, vaccination against the flu reduces the likelihood of serious complications and long-term illness,” he said. “Maintaining your health and immunity was less important than ever, as we are resuming our plans for an ongoing pandemic.”

The dates and locations of the two flu clinics are Wednesday, October 7th, Garrison Fire Department on 1616 Route 9, Friday, October 16th, at the Drivethrough Clinic on 1 Geneva Road in PCDOH, and rainy days on Monday, October 19th. .. All clinics are from 1 pm to 6:30 pm.

“Being vaccinated against the flu reduces one need to worry about your own health and the health of your family,” says county administration Mary Ellen Odell. “As we continue to address the COVID case this year, our health department makes it more convenient and safe with drive-through services.”

Early vaccination is always important because a person builds immunity about two weeks after a shot. Certain people need to be sure to get vaccinated. They include pregnant women. Children from 6 months to 18 years. People over 50; people with chronic or long-term medical conditions, and those who live with or care for them. Healthcare professionals also need to get the flu vaccine to protect their patients.

The Public Influenza Clinic is open to all residents of Putnam County over the age of 18. Registration information and forms can be found on the online health department vaccination page. www.putnamcountyny.com/health/immunization..

You can make the necessary reservations by calling the schedule line, leaving your name and phone number. The call will be returned immediately, a time frame will be provided and confirmed. The influenza schedule line is 845-808-1390 and extension 43262.

Up to 300 people can be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis. Carpooling is encouraged and all participants are required to stay in the car. You will need to download, fill out, sign and present your vaccination consent form to a public health nurse at the drive-through clinic.

Proof of residence is required and will be checked. The vaccination fee is $ 25 for residents between the ages of 18 (minimum required) and 64. People over the age of 65 can receive the vaccine free of charge by presenting their Medicare card. We only accept checks or cash. Studies have shown that this vaccine is more effective in this population, so high-dose influenza vaccines are being offered to older people over the age of 65.

Additional public flu clinics may be held later this year. Information on future dates will be posted on the Ministry of Health website, social media and published on the Ministry of Health’s influenza hotline. The number is 800-1390. Press option “2”. For school clinics, check your school calendar or check with your school nurse for more information.