by Tavia Smith
Vanderbilt University Medical Center will hold its ninth annual Flulapalooza mass influenza vaccination event on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
The event will be held from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in a tent between Light Hall and the Veteran’s Administration (VA) Hospital.
Faculty, staff and volunteers from the Medical Center and Vanderbilt University are encouraged to receive a flu shot during the 12-hour event. The event is not open to the general public.
In 2018, approximately 13,683 vaccinations were given.
This year’s event will continue to offer three vaccine choices: high-dose, recommended for those age 65 and older, egg-free for those with egg allergies and standard Quadrivalent (the four-component vaccine).
“One of the most important preventive measures you can take is getting your annual flu vaccination,” said Lori Rolando, MD, MPH, director of the Vanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic (OHC). “Flulapalooza has proven to be a successful event and provides the Vanderbilt community with easy and quick access to flu vaccinations.”
All employees are encouraged to participate as volunteers in the capacity of vaccinators, vaccinator helpers, documenters and patient greeters. They can work two-hour shifts.
Volunteers should receive prior approval from their supervisor before volunteering for shifts.
Volunteer registration information can be found at vumc.org/health-wellness/event-staff-signup.
“Flulapalooza promotes our mission to protect co-workers, guests and patients on our campus, and by volunteering you contribute to this goal,” Rolando said.
“This event brings our community together in a fun way. Those who receive their vaccination or volunteer play an integral part in the success of the event.”
Flu vaccination is a requirement for all Medical Center employees, and Flulapalooza works to facilitate the process.
All current employees must comply and receive the flu shot by Monday, Dec. 2.
