The Washington County Health Department offered influenza vaccinations on Monday during a drive-through clinic at the Reno Business Complex in Reno, Ohio. Shots were available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., according to WTAP. Drivers could remain in their vehicles while completing paperwork, undergoing health screenings and receiving a vaccine, a process the report described as taking only minutes.
Beth Miller, a registered nurse with the department, said, according to WTAP, that early vaccination matters because immunity takes roughly two weeks to develop. She described holiday gatherings as close-contact occasions when people spread germs.
The clinic provided standard and high-dose flu vaccines. Health officials said broad immunization can help protect people at higher risk, including older adults, young children and immunocompromised patients with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD and diabetes. Miller also addressed concerns about side effects, saying mild reactions indicate the body is producing antibodies and are better than becoming ill with influenza.
WTAP reported that mobile clinics can reduce obstacles related to transportation and scheduling in rural areas. The health department intends to hold more outreach clinics throughout Washington County before the year ends.