A collaborative effort between Escambia County agencies will provide residents with a free drive-through flu shot clinic Monday.
The Escambia County Health Department, the Escambia County Emergency Management Agency, The American Red Cross, local medical providers and local law enforcement will come together Halloween day from 8 a.m. until noon at Little Escambia Baptist Church, located at 445 Highway 113 in Flomaton, to provide the free service.
Alabama Department of Public Health representative Kimberly Taylor said the clinic will accomplish more than just providing inoculations.
“In addition to providing a valuable health service, this clinic will serve as a real time exercise that demonstrates established emergency protocols for any future occurrence that would require mass public vaccination,” Taylor said.
According to the ADPH, flu outbreaks in Alabama typically occur between November and March. Flu symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, coughing and fatigue.
Taylor said, for most people, the flu only lasts a few days, but for others it may lead to pneumonia and breathing problems. For children, it can cause high fevers and seizures.
The ADPH recommends the public follow basic infection control measures, in addition to receiving a flu shot. Basic preventative practices include covering the mouth when coughing and frequent hand washing.