Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, will administer free influenza vaccinations for the 28th straight year for adults and children age 6 months and older during two drive-through flu shot clinics in October.

Vaccines will be administered 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 11, Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH) - Hecktown Oaks, Lower Nazareth Township, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 12, Integrated Health Campus, Upper Macungie Township.

For the past 27 years, LVHN has administered nearly 215,000 free flu shots through its annual community influenza vaccination campaign.

“Every year, we treat people who become very ill from influenza. Many of them are not vaccinated. The annual flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of getting seriously ill,” said Alex Benjamin, MD, Chief of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, LVHN.

“Our annual shot clinic makes it easy and convenient for not just individuals, but entire families to get vaccinated in a matter of minutes from the convenience of their car,” Benjamin said.

“My message this fall is simple: Get your flu shot and invite someone else you care about to get it, too. That quick investment in your health could save a life,” said Benjamin.

Those planning to get a flu shot at either drive-through location is asked to review the vaccine information statement and fill out a consent form at: LVHN.org/flushot.

Participants are to bring a completed and signed consent form for each person receiving a flu shot. There will be consent forms available at the drive-through sessions.

A standard dose of flu vaccine will be given to those 6 months to 64 years of age. Those 65 and older will be offered the high-dose vaccine for increased protection.

Those planning to receive a flu shot should wear loose-fitting clothing so the shot can be administered in the arm (or the leg for children under 2 years of age).

LVHN is again partnering with area food banks and shelters to accept donations of unexpired, nonperishable food items during each of the drive-through sessions.

Food donations are optional and not required to receive a shot.

Volunteers will collect other items, including diapers, personal hygiene products (e.g., toothbrushes), coffee pods and disinfectant wipes.

“We are incredibly proud of the many clinicians and staff who have volunteered for this invaluable community event,” said Brenda Croll-Stachelek, RN, Director for Infection Control and Prevention, LVHN.

“Caring for our community doesn’t just happen within the walls of our hospitals. It happens through grassroots and proactive events like these,” Croll-Stachelek said.

The vaccination routes for LVH - Hecktown Oaks and Integrated Health Campus are available at: LVHN.org/flushot