Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic At Woodbridge Hospital Prepares For Flu Season

WOODBRIDGE, VA —As flu season gets underway, a drive-thru flu shot clinic is planned at Woodbridge's hospital Saturday.

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center will host the free drive-thru flu shot event in its main parking lot at 2300 Opitz Blvd, Woodbridge, VA. Adults 18 and older can receive the free flu shot while staying in their vehicles.

"When you get vaccinated, you protect yourself from a serious illness that could lead to hospitalization," said Jeff Joyner, president at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center. "We encourage everyone to make flu vaccination a priority."

Vaccinations will be on a first come, first served basis, and appointments are not needed. Most adults receive the standard flu vaccine, but adults 66 and older receive the high-rose flu vaccine. A limited number of Fluad vaccines for adults 65 and older, will be available. The event will be rain or shine.

According to Sentara, the flu shot is safe and effective and builds immunity to flu viruses predicted to be most common this season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Sentara recommend flu shots for people 6 months and older. It is especially recommended for people at high risk for flu complications — young children, pregnant women, adults 65 and older and people with underlying health conditions. The peak of flu season is expected to be months away, but flu shots are often recommended in the fall to reduce the spread early.

"Getting a flu shot is a quick, safe way to protect ourselves and our families from serious illness," said Dr. Bogdan Neughebauer, market chief medical officer at Sentara Health. "The flu vaccine decreases the risk for severe sickness, reduces hospitalizations, and helps keep our community healthier throughout the season."

There will be 17 drive-thru clinics in Sentara's coverage areas in Virginia and northeast North Carolina. Flu shots are also available across Sentara locations, including primary care offices, urgent care centers, pharmacies and community clinics.