Flu control and prevention is something JPS Health Network always takes seriously. But in the midst of a global pandemic, making the right moves in the fight against the flu is now more important than ever before.
“The last thing you want is to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time,” said Dr. Nadia Alawi-Kakomanolis, Vice Chief of Primary Care Operations at JPS. “This is definitely not the year to skip getting a flu shot.”
That’s why JPS is ready to help you do everything necessary to protect residents of Tarrant County this flu season.
How are people supposed to get a flu shot in a socially-distanced world? JPS has you covered with innovative new options that eliminate waiting in line for a vaccination. In addition to offering flu shots during regular appointments with your doctor and at select JPS Medical Homes, drive-thru flu vaccinations will be available through JPS this year. People can also check in via their cell phone when they arrive at their flu shot location and wait in the comfort and safety of their car for a call back when it’s time to come in and get their inoculation.
“There’s no sitting in a crowded waiting room,” Alawi-Kakomanolis said. “You pull up, answer a few questions, get your shot and you’re on your way. It’s never been easier to protect yourself from the flu.”
Washing your hands properly and frequently, wearing masks, cleaning hard surfaces, staying home when you're sick and social distancing are things that not only stop the spread of COVID-19, but also the flu.
JPS facilities delivered about 54,000 flu vaccinations during the 2019-20 flu season. Alawi-Kakomanolis said she hopes to see that number increase to about 70,000 for the 2020-21 season.
While it’s vital that people prepare themselves against the flu, Dr. Steven Davis, pulmonary/critical care physician and Senior Physician Executive of Internal Medicine said the methods people have used to defend themselves from COVID-19 for the past six months have been good training for the fight against the flu. People shouldn’t feel as if an additional burden is being placed on them, he said. They should feel empowered by the fact that they’re armed with the tools and skills they need to protect themselves.
“The things people are doing from COVID-19 are the same things they need to be doing to protect themselves from the flu,” Davis said. “Washing your hands properly and frequently, wearing masks, cleaning hard surfaces, staying home when you’re sick and social distancing are things that not only stop the spread of COVID-19, but also the flu. So we’re not asking people to do more, we’re just asking them to remain vigilant.”
Drive through appointments will be available Sept. 14 – October 23 from 8:30–11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Appointments for flu vaccinations are encouraged. Call 817-702-1100 to set up your time or for additional information about flu shots. They are available for patients 13 and older. Younger patients much receive their flu shots inside the clinic.
So, this season, spread the word about how easy it is to protect yourself with a flu shot. Spread the word, not the flu.