Mainstreet Daily News
On October 19th, 2020 Gainesville Fire Rescue (GFR) will be launching our first ever Mobile Flu Vaccination Program. The Mobile Flu Vaccination Team is comprised of GFR’s Community Resource Paramedicine (CPR) Program Coordinator Ariella Bak, CRP Technicians, Firefighter/ Paramedics, and representatives from the Alachua County Health Department. For 22 days, we will travel the city into low- income, vulnerable neighborhoods to provide free, accessible flu vaccines to our neighbors who are 2 years old and older.
“Now more than ever it is especially important to do your part in protecting your Gainesville family and neighbors by getting your flu vaccine. Community health is the fire department’s primary concern and we want to ensure everyone has access to this method of effective protection,” said CRP Program Coordinator and Mobile Flu Vaccination Program Coordinator Ariella Bak.
The mission of the Mobile Flu Vaccination Program is to limit the level of exposure to COVID-19 and minimize mortality during flu season. From 9:00am to 4:00pm each day (12pm- 1pm lunch break), GFR will be roaming neighborhoods and visiting community centers in a fire department van to provide flu vaccinations. The Alachua County Health Department will be following in a van to provide free HIV and Syphilis testing as well. Important things to know:
- If you have insurance, your insurance may be billed for your flu vaccine. However, whether you have insurance or not, there is no out of pocket cost.
- You do not need doctor’s note or prescription.
- Vaccinations are available for minors as long as a parent or guardian is with them.
- Please wear a mask and observe 6ft social distancing while waiting in line. Your temperature will also be taken before the vaccine is administered.
- HIV and Syphilis testing is available for those 18 year of age or older. A government issued ID is required.
For more information about Gainesville’s Mobile Flu Vaccination Program or GFR’s Community Resource Paramedicine Program, please contact CRP Coordinator Ariella Bak at 352-339-6375.