By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
For nearly three years now, COVID-19 has garnered much of the attention in health-related news. But influenza is still an annual threat. On Monday, the Barton County Health Department took its mobile lab to four communities in the northern portion of the county to administer flu and COVID-19 vaccines. On Friday, the lab will again be mobile with stops in Galatia, Albert, Olmitz, and Pawnee Rock. Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley said it's an important service the health department provides.
"We like to get out in the community and try to make it convenient for those that maybe don't have transportation or just need closer to home," she said. "We come to you and give those flu vaccines."
According to the CDC, flu activity was unusually low during the 2020-21 flu season, even with high levels of testing. In the three years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory specimens testing positive for the flu virus ranged from 26-30 percent. From Sept. 28, 2020 through May 22, 2021, that number dipped to just 0.2 percent. COVID-19 likely played a role with people wearing face masks, staying home, and washing their hands more often.
Flu numbers will likely rebound as life returns to normal. Ensley said the vaccine is one way to protect yourself.
"The importance of the flu vaccine is that its the best way to prevent the flu," she said. "Flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness in some. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get an annual flu vaccine."
The mobile lab will arrive will be in Galatia from 8-9 a.m. at United Ag Services, then move to the city building in Albert from 9:30-10:30 a.m. The lab will be at That New Place in Olmitz from 11 a.m. to noon, then end the day at city hall in Pawnee Rock from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
There are three vaccines available, starting at $57. The health department does accept insurance for the vaccines or does accept cash for those without insurance.