August 19, 2026Los Alamos Reporter
LAMC To Offer Free Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic Saturday, Sept. 26
Getting a flu shot is more important than ever this year, and Los Alamos Medical Center (LAMC) is very pleased to announce it will once again host its annual free drive-thru community flu shot clinic from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, in the hospital parking lot at 3917 West Road in Los Alamos. Last year’s drive-thru clinics at LAMC vaccinated more than 725 individuals in our community.Flu shots will be offered to all individuals 9 years and older. High-dose vaccines will also be available for those who are 65 and older, as supplies last. Vaccines will be administered in a drive-thru configuration that will not require people to get out of their vehicle, unless needed to accommodate.“Flu season is fast approaching – and last year’s was particularly fierce. Protect yourself, your family, and those around you by getting vaccinated,” said Joyce Richins, RN, BS, CIC, Infection Preventionist at LAMC. “It’s vital to remember that vaccination doesn’t just keep you safe, it helps protect others in your life. The flu can be a life-threatening illness for children, older adults, and others.”On the day of the clinic, attendees are asked to follow the signage at the hospital and follow instructions to receive their free vaccination. While this is a first-come, first-serve clinic, hundreds of doses are available so attendees are asked not to arrive before 7:30 a.m., as that will interfere with the setup of the clinic.While it is still possible to contract the flu after being vaccinated, studies show that vaccinations can make your illness less severe if you do get sick. Getting vaccinated also affords you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re doing everything you can to protect yourself against the flu.Although everyone is susceptible to the flu, some individuals are at greater risk of developing complications from these viruses, including children younger than 5 years old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, and those with certain medical conditions like asthma, heart disease and blood disorders.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, September and October are the best times for most people to get vaccinated against the flu.Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. If you have symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away.Help stop the spread of the virus: Get vaccinated! Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you don’t have a tissue to cough into, cover your nose and mouth with your elbow or arm. Limit your contact with others and stay home from work or school if you are ill.
