Resiliency of the United States Vaccination System
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused healthcare providers to change how they operate to continue providing essential services to patients. Ensuring vaccination services are maintained or restarted is essential for protecting individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and outbreaks, as well as reducing the burden of respiratory illnesses during the influenza season. Local health departments, clinics, and healthcare providers make the United States vaccination system work; they have been maintaining routine vaccination schedules and promoting and distributing seasonal flu vaccine while preparing to administer COVID-19 vaccines. This ongoing series highlights recent successes across the country.
Protecting a Community Against Flu: A Resilient Model During Difficult Times
With over 200 sites throughout Connecticut, Community Health Center Inc., or CHC, typically helps more than 100,000 patients each year with a range of services. CHC started operating drive-through flu vaccination clinics in August to address patient fears from patients that coming to the health center would expose them to COVID-19.
Baltimore Coalition Introduces African American Community Campaign on the Importance of Getting a Flu Vaccine
In Baltimore, Rev. Dr. Terris King is hoping to make a difference. He’s helping to lead a coalition to raise awareness about the importance of getting a flu vaccine as Baltimore prepares for this flu season. Rev. Dr. King believes the voices of community leaders and advocates are essential to educating the public about the safety, effectiveness, and importance of vaccines.
