MedStar Health to Host 9th Annual Drive-Thru Flu Clinic at MedStar Harbor Hospital

Participants can receive a free flu shot without getting out of the car.

BALTIMORE – MedStar Health will host its 9th annual drive-thru flu vaccination clinic, Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., at the MedStar Harbor Hospital orthopedic center, 2900 S. Hanover Street. Anyone over 18 can receive a free flu vaccine from volunteer clinicians, safely and conveniently, directly through the car window.  

“Getting a flu shot each year is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your family, and the community from seasonal influenza,” said Chris Roberge, MS, RN, clinical quality manager at MedStar Harbor Hospital. “We are proud to offer this free clinic as part of our ongoing commitment to community health.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls influenza a contagious respiratory illness that affects the U.S. population most often between October and May. Anyone can be infected, but children, adults over 65, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk.

Complications from influenza may include pneumonia, bronchitis, ear and sinus infections, and worsened preexisting medical conditions such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, and in some children, gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.

On average, flu in the U.S. contributes to thousands of deaths and many more hospitalizations each year. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for prevention.

This year’s flu vaccine is designed to protect against the influenza viruses research indicates will be most common, including:

• Influenza A (H1N1)
• Influenza A (H3N2)
• Influenza B/Victoria lineage

Those who are getting the vaccine should remember to wear short sleeves or clothing with easy access to the upper arm.