In an effort to help mitigate the seasonal flu amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County is partnering with BayCare Health Systems to extend access to flu vaccinations. Starting the week of Nov. 9, a limited number of free flu vaccines will be available to adults (ages 18 and up) Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at the drive-thru COVID-19 testing site at the Gulfview Square Mall.

The testing site is located at the old Sears Auto Center located at 9409 US Highway 19 in Port Richey. (COVID-19 testing is being done at this site Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.) Individuals will be able to obtain a flu vaccine from licensed medical professionals without leaving their cars.

“This year, with our drive-thru testing service, we had a unique opportunity to also help provide flu shots for the community in a convenient and safe way,” said Jim Cote, senior vice president for Ambulatory Services at BayCare. “As COVID-19 continues to affect the community, getting a flu shot has never been more important. We are looking forward to serving the community in this capacity and leveraging our drive-thru locations to provide vaccines quickly and efficiently.”

While the flu vaccines are being administered at COVID-19 testing sites, please note they are being offered at different times. No individual is expected to receive both services, as patients with either flu or COVID-19 symptoms are not recommended to receive a flu vaccine, per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC). Clients showing flu or COVID-19 symptoms should contact their primary care physician or visit BayCareAnywhere.

For more information on flu, visit www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/prevention/flu-prevention or go to the CDC at www.cdc.gov/flu.   

For more information on COVID-19, visit floridahealthcovid19.govor the go to the CDC at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.