MOUNT VERNON – To meet the demand for COVID-19 vaccine and prepare for the upcoming flu season, Knox Public Health will conduct a drive-through clinic offering vaccines for both COVID-19 and seasonal flu.
The two-for-one event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 9, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Knox County Fairgrounds. Administration of all vaccine will take place while individuals are in their vehicle.
Drive-through participants can receive vaccine for both COVID-19 and the flu at the same time – in separate arms if they prefer – or receive vaccine for either the flu or COVID-19. If someone gets just one vaccine at the drive-through clinic, there is a two-week waiting period between administration of the two vaccines.
Flu shots will be available for adults and children at least 6 months of age.
COVID-19 vaccine available during the drive-through clinic include first doses of the Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson vaccines; third doses for those who are immunocompromised and previously received either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine; and booster shots for anyone over age 65 who previously received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Booster shots are also available for those under age 65 with certain medical conditions, occupations or living conditions. For a complete list of qualifications for the booster shot, go to knoxhealth.com.
Those who want either a third dose or booster shot need to bring their COVID-19 vaccine record card so that their vaccination status can be verified and updated.
At this time, additional doses for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, beyond the first dose, have not been approved by the FDA or CDC.
There are no out-of-pocket costs for the COVID-19 vaccine. Medicaid, Medicare and most forms of insurance will be accepted as payment for the flu vaccine. Otherwise, the cost for flu vaccine is $35 and can be paid in cash or by check. Clinic attendees need to bring a photo ID and medical/insurance card.
To access the drive-through clinic, attendees will enter the fairgrounds using the lower gate, off of State Route 3/Wooster Road. The gates will open at 8 a.m. There is no need to arrive early as Knox Public Health indicates there is plenty of vaccine to offer shots during the entire length of the clinic.
Attendees are advised to wear a short-sleeved shirt so that their arm is easily accessible to receive vaccine. Masks are recommended for those receiving vaccine. All can attend the drive-through clinic, regardless of where they live, or where they received their previous COVID-19 shots.
Knox Public Health staff will be onsite throughout the drive-through event to help with paperwork. Registration forms can be completed ahead of time and downloaded from the agency website, knoxhealth.com. For more information, call 740-392-2200.
