Drive up, roll up a sleeve

AUSTINTOWN — A drive-thru flu shot service planned by the Mahoning County Health Department is a handy way for residents to get the vaccine, and good practice for public health officials in pandemic preparedness.

The event is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Canfield Fairgrounds.

The public will enter the fairgrounds through Gate 8 on state Route 46 and will be directed to registration and flu shot areas. Individuals seeking shots are asked to wear short sleeved shirts or jackets that can be easily removed, said county health Commissioner Matthew Stefanak.

Participants can remain in their vehicles while completing the registration forms and receiving their influenza vaccines. County health officials encourage children six months of age and older, adults and seniors to get a flu shot.

“I think it will be convenient, particularly for the frail,” Stefanak said of the drive-thru service.

For more, see Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com