Free H1N1 Flu vaccinations will be offered to the public this month during drive-through clinics in Ark City and Winfield, the City-Cowley Health Dept. has announced.
These clinics are for the general public and not just specific groups of the population as previous clinics have been.
The health department will work with hospitals in both cities to provide vaccinations. The clinic in Ark City is set for 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Agri-Services Building, 712 W. Washington.
A clinic in Winfield will be from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Dec. 16 at Winfield Fairground. Vaccinations are free but supplies are limited, health officials said. Anyone six months or older can participate.
In Winfield, motorists are asked to enter the faiground from 14th. In Ark City motorists will enter from the 6th Street side.
Health officials said they settled on the drive-through method because it is a quick and convenient way to distribute vaccine. It is also better suited for those with disabilities, mobility issues or heath problems.
A drive-through system is also expected to cut down on disease transmission, because participants stay in their vehicles.Time spent in line to receive the vaccination is estimated to average 15 minutes.
Health officials did provide a list of challengs to the drive through, which participants should be aware of:
Long sleeves and coats that prevent access to an exposed shoulder
Inclement weather
Potential safety hazards due to moving vehicles
Difficulty streamlining support service for vehicles; once a car enters the drive-through system it can difficult to pull out of lanes for any reason.
May not accommodate those with no access to a vehicle.
Does not accommodate some special needs populations.
