Anthem Funds Vote & Vaccinate for 2008

A News & Events entry posted on August 13, 2008

Through a special grant submitted by PIV and the help of PIV member Rhonda Keith, Anthem of Virginia will generously support existing and new Vote & Vaccinate sites this year with specially designed promotional items and communication tools. Traditionally, the majority of voters are 50+, an age range that is definitely a priority for receiving the influenza vaccine. That makes the polling places an ideal place to offer flu shots, thus Vote & Vaccinate was created!

Hopewell and Waynesboro were early adopters of this program in 2002 and 2003. Additionally, Salem, Harrisonburg, and Petersburg started Vote & Vaccinate sites and have continued providing influenza vaccine at or near polling sites. This year, Innova plans on having Vote & Vaccinate sites in Fairfax County. Salem, Harrisonburg, Augusta/Waynesboro will also hold clinics.

Vote & Vaccinate sites will receive patriotic t-shirts, buttons, banners, posters and advertising in local newspapers directing people to the sites. In addition, an information sheet debunking flu myths and emphasizing the importance of receiving the flu vaccine will be available to sites and to other PIV influenza initiatives.

With this special funding, PIV is still looking to add a few more Vote & Vaccinate sites in Virginia. If interested in helping to host a site, please contact Michelle Charters for more information and assistance.