Operation Immunization offers free flu shots on Saturday, Oct. 2

WICHITA, Kan., Monday, Sept. 13, 2021 — The University of Kansas School of Pharmacy in Wichita is offering its annual free flu shot clinics for those who are unemployed, uninsured or unable to pay for ages 3 and older. The clinics will be held at five different locations on Saturday, Oct. 2.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• • Guadalupe Clinic (940 S. Saint Francis)
  • The Lord’s Diner (2825 S. Hillside) hosted by Guadelupe Clinic
  • GraceMed (1122 N. Topeka St.)
  • HealthCore Clinic (2707 E. 21^st)

Noon – 3 p.m.

• • Evergreen Rec Center (2700 N. Woodland)

Operation Immunization is planned and implemented by local pharmacy students who gain valuable leadership and clinical skills. Licensed and immunization certified pharmacists supervise the administration of the immunizations. Dean Ronald Ragan from the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy said, “This is one of the many ways our students contribute to the wellbeing of the community, and we’re pleased that so many of them donate their time to such an important cause.”

United Way of the Plains has provided financial support for the annual fall event for several years. Abel Frederic, Vice President of Community Impact for United Way of the Plains, said, “This collaboration helps our community in a multitude of ways. The immunizations strengthen the health and wellbeing of the community, keeping individuals and families healthier. Flu shots will help children stay in school and adults will miss fewer days of work due to illness. That’s crucial for the financial stability of many families and the continuing education of our children. It’s a wonderful partnership and we’re very grateful to the students, administrators and pharmacists who volunteer their time and expertise to this important initiative.”

The 2021 donation by United Way helps cover the cost of the vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Check the CDC website for answers about flu vaccines and activity at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:
University of Kansas School of Pharmacy – Robert L. Emerson, PharmD, Senior Associate Dean, Associate Dean for Wichita Affairs, Wichita Regional Campus, (316) 293-3500, remerson@ku.edu

United Way of the Plains – Angie Prather, Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer, (316) 267‑1321, ext. 4105, aprather@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on health, education and financial stability – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.