Author: Jessica Gregory
Beginning today, the Alliant Energy Center offers free flu shots to all Dane County residents at their drive-thru clinic until Nov. 21, 2020.
Anyone, no matter their health insurance status, can now receive a free flu shot. Previously, only individuals with BadgerCare, Medicare or Medicaid were eligible for these provided immunizations. With extra resources, Public Health Madison Dane County (PHMDC) had the option to open the opportunity up to all.
Tess Evans, a public health nurse, says that Dane County is aiming to vaccinate as many people in the area as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With COVID-19 spreading everywhere, the flu shot is especially important this year to not only protect health, but also reduce the burden on hospitals and healthcare systems. We've gotten a lot of great feedback about the convenience of the drive-thru system and are excited to expand access,” Ellens said.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health, hospital beds within the state are 87% occupied. Flu shot immunizations are most effective after two weeks, so PHMDC recommends being vaccinated as soon as possible. Flu season typically peaks in January and February.
PHMDC posts updates on wait times for flu shots and COVID-19 tests periodically throughout the day on their twitter, @publichealthmdc. On their YouTube channel, they posted a video today promoting the importance of adhering to health expert's guidelines, featuring Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway.
“We're wearing our masks, keeping our distance and washing our hands. And we should all get our flu shots as well,” Rhodes-Conway said. “Combining these efforts keeps our whole community safe.”
The Alliant Energy Center's drive-thru flu shot clinic is located at 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI 53713. Hours differ on the day with the clinic closed on Sundays and Mondays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the clinic is open from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Open earlier on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
For those in need of a ride to the clinic, the Public Health Transportation Line can be reached at (608) 243-0420. At the clinic, an ID is not necessary. Immigration statuses will not be asked and language interpreters are available.
