THRU WITH FLU

The second or so Saturday in October, stay away from Highway 44 in front of Putnam General Hospital. Unless you like traffic. Or need a flu shot.

As word has spread, the annual free "Drive-thru to stop flu" has attracted exponentially more people, over a thousand last year, forcing an early start-time just to clear snarled roadways.

Eight nurses stand at the ready over four lanes of traffic. As car windows roll down, sleeves roll up. A little brief paperwork, a healthy apple and the driver is off, armed to face another vicious flu season.

Paid for in full by the Putnam General Auxiliary, President Pat Henderson says that while they love to help different hospital departments with their "wish lists," the flu shots are the primary focus of their many fundraisers.

"With the bad economy, flu shots are usually not a priority," Henderson says. "Food, shelter and clothes are a priority." And, she says since the CDC can't predict which flu strain will be active each year, annual shots help build protection for different strains.

The price tag is far from cheap. Nearly $20,000 in the past three years, not including band-aids, needles and fruit.

The group hosts events almost year-round to make their money. In July there’s a linen sale. November 22, it’s the $5 jewelry sale. December 5 is the annual Love Light tree lighting and veteran salute. January 28 is the popular soup luncheon and March 26, a fashion show, both at First United Methodist in Eatonton.

With some volunteer retirees headed back to paying work, Henderson says they're always seeking new members. The community and hospital are counting on them.

Flu Shot Drive-by
Putnam General Hospital Auxiliary
101 Lake Oconee Parkway
Eatonton, GA Pkwy
706-485-2711, ext. 249