Flu Pandemic Exercise to be Held on Thursday in Salem

A REACH air ambulance based out of Corvallis lands at Salem’s Riverfront Park earlier this summer. Photo: Kevin Hays Salem News Journal

(SALEM, Ore. ) — The Marion County Health Department will be conducting an emergency preparedness exercise on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Salem Riverfront Park.

The exercise will help Health Department staff practice responding to an influenza pandemic and a Point of Dispensing site will be set up at the Centennial Pavilion in the park.

The public is welcome to attend the exercise, and receive a flu vaccination.

Flu vaccinations will be available while supplies last. There is no cost, or medical insurance needed. However those with the Oregon Health Plan, and private insurance are encouraged to bring their insurance cards.

Immunization Program Supervisor Judy Cleave said, “We need the public’s help to make this exercise as realistic as possible. We encourage residents to come to the exercise to help us practice and get their seasonal flu shot at the same time.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and can cause mild to severe illness.

Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization, or in some cases, death. The elderly, young children and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.

Salem Riverfront Park is located at 200 Water Street NE, Salem.

For more information about the exercise or flu vaccine, contact Judy Cleave at (503) 361-2693.