Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital to host free vaccine clinic

As communities across north-central West Virginia continue to recover from recent flooding, Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital will host a free vaccine clinic weekdays from Friday, July 24, through Friday, July 31, to help protect residents from illnesses and injuries that can occur following flood exposure.

Beginning on Friday, July 24, all Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital outpatient clinics in the affected areas will resume normal operations. Patients with questions about upcoming appointments are encouraged to contact their provider's office.

The vaccine clinic will offer free tetanus and Hepatitis vaccines for individuals who may have been exposed to floodwaters or sustained injuries during rescue or cleanup efforts.

Vaccine Clinic
Date: Friday, July 24 – Friday, July 31 (weekdays only)
Time: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Location: Main Entrance Lobby, Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, 230 Hospital Plaza, Weston, WV 26452

The vaccines will be provided free of charge. Walk-ins are welcome.

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can enter the body through cuts, puncture wounds and other injuries, making it especially important for anyone who may have been exposed to flood debris or contaminated water. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver and can spread through contaminated food, water or close contact. Vaccination can help protect individuals who may be at increased risk of exposure during flood recovery efforts.

"Flood recovery is about more than rebuilding homes and businesses — it's about protecting the health and well-being of our communities," said Lisa Songer, Chief Administrative Officer, Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital. "We're proud to offer this free vaccine clinic and provide resources that can help our neighbors stay healthy and safe as we recover from this devastating flooding."

Floodwaters can contain bacteria, sewage, chemicals and other contaminants that increase the risk of illness and infection, particularly for people with cuts, scrapes or puncture wounds.

"Even minor wounds can become infected after exposure to contaminated floodwater," said Vickie Wiseman, Infection Preventionist, CIC, Vandalia Health. "Clean any cuts or puncture wounds as soon as possible with soap and clean water, keep them covered and seek medical attention if you notice increasing redness, swelling, drainage or fever. Wearing appropriate protective equipment during cleanup and ensuring your tetanus vaccination is up to date are important steps in preventing serious infections."

As cleanup efforts continue, Vandalia Health encourages residents to watch for potential health concerns, including:

• Cuts and puncture wounds that can become infected after contact with contaminated floodwater or debris.

• Skin and soft tissue infections.

• Respiratory irritation or illness caused by mold growth in flood-damaged buildings.

• Dehydration, heat exhaustion and overexertion during physically demanding cleanup work.

• Gastrointestinal illness caused by contaminated food or drinking water.

To help reduce the risk of illness and injury during cleanup, residents should:

• Wear waterproof boots, gloves, eye protection and protective clothing.

• Clean and cover any cuts or scrapes immediately.

• Wear an N95 or similar respirator when cleaning mold or dust in enclosed spaces.

• Never mix household cleaning chemicals, especially bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as this can create dangerous toxic gases. Always read and follow product label instructions and ensure adequate ventilation when using cleaning products.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating or drinking.

• Drink bottled or treated water if the local water supply has been compromised.

• Take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and avoid overexertion, particularly during hot weather.

Anyone experiencing increasing redness, swelling, drainage or fever after an injury, difficulty breathing, severe dehydration or any other serious medical concern should seek medical attention promptly. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

For more information about the vaccine clinic, call 304-269-8000.