(SALUDA, Va.)— The Three Rivers Health District has partnered with local government partners to offer drive-thru influenza vaccine clinics to individuals aged 16 and older. Vaccines will be free and clinics will take place at the Richmond County Rescue Squad (152 Community Park Drive in Warsaw) on October 22 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and at the Hartfield Volunteer Fire Department (3309 Twiggs Ferry Road in Hartfield) on October 25 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.. Individuals interested should wear a short sleeve shirt or a shirt that allows us easy access to the upper arm.

Commonly known as “the flu,” influenza is a disease caused by the influenza virus that affects the respiratory tract and spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. The flu vaccine is an effective way to help prevent complications related to the influenza virus.

“We are hoping to meet people where they are and offer the flu vaccine in a way that is accessible and hassle-free,” said Three Rivers Health District Director Brenden Rivenbark. “Whether at a drive-thru clinic, the health department, a pharmacy, or with your doctor, we are encouraging everyone to get vaccinated. We want to thank our local government partners for making this opportunity a reality for community.”

It is important for those at higher risk for influenza complications to be vaccinated each year. These higher risk groups include:

  • Pregnant and postpartum women, or those who will be pregnant during the influenza season;
  • Persons 65 and older, including residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities;
  • People who have chronic lung or heart problems, including asthma; and
  • People who have other serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, anemia, cancer, weak immune systems (including those with HIV) or a seizure disorder.

While it takes up to two weeks to develop the vaccine’s full protection, everyone can take steps to minimize the risk of contracting or transmitting the flu by following these simple steps:

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cover your mouth when you cough.
  • Stay at home when you are sick.

Please visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/influenza-flu-in-virginia for more information about influenza in Virginia.