More than 600 children and family members attended The Centers for Children and Women’s drive-thru “Boo! To Flu” days in October, where patients and their families were invited to receive their flu vaccines from the convenience and safety of their car and participate in a Halloween “Trunk-or-Treat.” Texas Children’s Mobile Clinic also offered drive-thru flu vaccines for members of the community.
The “Boo! To Flu” days, which were redesigned this year as a drive-thru experience due to the COVID-19 pandemic, were held to help people prepare for flu season. The flu events were a big – and spooky – success: 370 children and adults received their flu shots. Kids were invited to come in their Halloween costumes and win giveaways as part of the “Trunk-or-Treat.” Adults and pregnant women also had the chance to receive flu shots free of cost.
For the “Trunk-or-Treat,” the Health Plan and The Centers gave out lunch kits and water bottles, while the Mobile Clinic provided masks. Many other community partners also gave out treats, including, but not limited to: The Houston Public Library gave books; Kids Meals provided individually-wrapped meal kits; Goya had cookies; The Houston Police Department gifted kids plush toys; The Houston Museum of Natural Science offered discounted ticket vouchers and candy; and The Harris County Dental Program provided tooth brushing kits.
The day was full of masked super hero appearances – both by our own health care heroes and the likes of Batman, Superman and Spiderman as well.
“Designing safe care to meet the needs and concerns of families during this pandemic is critical,” Dr. Stephanie Marton, Medical Director – Pediatrics, Texas Children’s Health Plan The Center for Children and Women, said. “Given nationwide vaccination decreases, offering new and accessible methods of vaccine delivery allows patients who may not have otherwise sought out medical care to do so.”
The Centers for Children and Women is dedicated to making sure patients have access to the very best care. That commitment remains stronger than ever today as we face the challenge of COVID-19. To protect patients, families and staff from COVID-19, we updated our annual “Boo! To Flu” days to take place outside from the comfort of patients’ cars.
Looking ahead, the flu vaccine drive-thru events offer The Centers for Children and Women a potential blueprint for delivering safely and efficiently anticipated COVID-19 vaccinations in the future.
The Centers for Children and Women encourages patients, parents and community members to be proactive by getting their flu shot each year. Science has proven that getting the flu vaccine in the fall is the best way to protect your child, your family members and your community at large from influenza. A flu shot is recommended for everyone six months or older, including kids, teens and pregnant women.
What’s Your Flu Shot Plan?
For a step-by-step guide to making your flu shot plan for this year, visit texaschildrensbenefits.org/flu. On this site you can:
- View information on the convenient ways to receive the flu vaccine. These options include attending an on-site event at Texas Children’s, visiting the Texas Children’s Pediatrics practice where your child receives care, and getting your shot from your primary care provider or a retail pharmacy.
- Review answers to the most frequently asked flu questions.
- Upload proof of vaccination with a mobile device.
Remember, by getting vaccinated against the flu, you are helping to keep our patients and their families, our entire workforce and our community safe.
