GREAT FALLS — Members of Great Falls’ transient community got a shot in the arm, literally and figuratively, on Monday as St. Vincent DePaul in Great Falls tried to help prepare them for flu season.
"It's better to be safe than sorry for the most part and it's not a bad thing,” said Kenny Mulford when asked why he chose to get a flu shot.
"I don't like being sick. I had the flu last year and it was not well,” Randy McCormick said.
Even before the free flu shot clinic began at First United Methodist Church, people were eagerly awaiting their turn.
"I can't afford it any other way, so it works for me,” said McCormick.
"It is awesome, really awesome. These people are really good,” said Mulford.
St. Vincent DePaul partnered with Alluvion Health and Great Falls Emergency Services' community paramedicine program to offer the free flu shots. This is the first time St. Vincent DePaul has gone out into the community to hold an event like this.
"I'm a firm believer in vaccines and this year's vaccine is a quadrivalent vaccine, which means it's more protective,” said Carley Tuss, St. Vincent DePaul Homeless Services director. "Then, when I look at what we're facing with the pandemic virus and how difficult it is for medical people which pathway to take in treatment and with the sure potential to overrun our healthcare services, I think it's really important to get a flu vaccine."
St. Vincent DePaul also used the event as an opportunity to encourage people to complete a 2020 Census form. A relatively small event, but one that could have a big impact in more ways than one. Tuss said this will now likely become an annual event.
On Tuesday, September 29, and again on Tuesday, October 6, the Cascade City-County Health Department will conduct a drive-thru flu shot clinic at Montana Expo Park from 10am to 2pm.
- Adults 18+ only
- High dose vaccine available for adults age 50 and older
- No cost with most insurances--don't forget your insurance card
- $40 with all other forms of payment (high dose vaccine excepted)
- Wear your mask
- No pets in the car
Due to COVID-19 and social distancing needs, there will be no walk-in clinic this year; call the CCHD at 406-454-6950 for more information.
