Flu season is right around the corner, and Lehigh Valley Health Network will administer free influenza vaccinations for the 27th straight year for adults and children ages 6 months and older during two drive-thru flu shot clinics in November.

Vaccines will be administered at Dorney Park in Allentown 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 2, and Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hecktown Oaks in Lower Nazareth Township 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 3.

For the past 26 years, LVHN has administered more than 210,000 free flu shots through its annual community influenza vaccination campaign.

“Being vaccinated against influenza reduces the risk for illness, hospitalization and death from the flu,” Alex Benjamin, MD, LVHN’s Chief of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology said. “Like many respiratory illnesses, influenza can be spread by infected individuals who are not showing symptoms, and since we are not masking as often as before, we could see increased transmission. Therefore, we strongly encourage everyone to make it their responsibility to get vaccinated.”

Everyone receiving a flu shot at either drive-thru location is asked to review the vaccine information statement and fill out a consent form by visiting LVHN.org/flushot. Please bring a completed and signed consent form for each person receiving a flu shot. There will be consent forms available at the drive-thru sessions if you do not have access to a printer.

In addition to the free vaccinations, LVHN is once again partnering with area food banks and shelters to accept donations of unexpired, nonperishable food items during each of the drive-thru sessions. While encouraged to support those in need, food donations are optional and not required to receive a shot. Those who choose to donate food are urged to check the expiration date and only bring items that have not expired and are nonperishable.

Volunteers also will be collecting other items to assist those in need in our community. These include things like diapers, personal hygiene products (e.g., toothbrushes), coffee pods and disinfectant wipes.

According to Terry Burger, RN, LVHN’s administrator for infection control and prevention, a standard dose of flu vaccine will be given to those 6 months to 64 years of age. Burger said those 65 and older will be offered the high-dose vaccine.

“Getting the vaccine remains the best way to protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu and possibly to prevent serious illness if you do get the flu,” Burger said.

Maps of the vaccination routes for Dorney Park and LVH – Hecktown Oaks are available at the website LVHN.org/flushot.

Those planning to receive a flu shot during LVHN’s November drive-thru vaccination clinics should wear loosefitting clothing so the shot can be administered in the arm or the leg for children under 2 years of age.