Mass flu vaccination clinic draws large response

Judy Nettles, R.N., of Piggott Community Hospital (right) administers a seasonal flu shot to Clay County Assessor Tracy Gurley during last week's clinic at the Piggott Community Center. (Times photo/Tim Blair) [Click to enlarge]

The Clay County Health Unit conducted a mass flu vaccination clinic Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Piggott Community Center and administered hundreds of shots during the course of the day.

The Health Unit, working in cooperation with the State Health Department, offered both the seasonal flu vaccine to the general public and the H1N1 shot for pregnant women and the very young.

"We gave around 764 adult seasonal flu shots during the day," Kim Donner, R.N., reported of the effort. "We also gave 20 pediatric seasonal flu shots and 46 of the H1N1 shots."

And although the shots were plentiful, there were some lengthy waits at various parts of the day. According to organizers, the average wait during the clinic was about an hour, although some of the individuals that arrived very early were forced to wait longer for the staff to catch up.

To facilitate the wait, nearly 100 chairs were set up on the floor of the community center gym, and health department officials rotated those waiting. Those getting vaccinations were required to complete a questionnaire and consent form before moving into one of the craft rooms for the actual shot.

The flu shots themselves then were administered by personnel from both the health department and Piggott Community Hospital.

"We had enough flu vaccine to take care of everyone who came out for the mass clinic, but we have since run out," Donner added. "We will be getting more at the local office, but we are currently out."

Tuesday the Arkansas Department of Health reported that a total of 172,873 doses of the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine were given out statewide. A total of 148,961 of seasonal flu vaccine were administered and 23,912 doses of the H1N1 vaccine were given to Arkansans.

Those who want more information on the availability of both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine may call the Clay County Health Unit at 870 598-3390.