Lincoln County health officials were bustling Monday as news gotout to Lincoln County residents about the arrival of influenzavaccinations.

“They were lined up outside the door when we opened up, and wehad a steady stream of folks all day,” said County Coordinate NurseBecky Calcote. “It was a great turnout, and we were able to get alot of people vaccinated.”

Health department personnel administered almost 400 fluvaccinations to high-risk Lincoln County residents from 8 a.m. to 5p.m., and expected to give a couple hundred more today.

“It’s been very busy, but very organized,” said Chris Smith, aregistered nurse at the health department. “We’ve been able to getpeople in and out pretty quick.”

The short amount of time, usually under 30 minutes, wasattributed to a new system health department employees implementedthis year.

They advise people to wear shirts with sleeves that can easilybe rolled up. They also get people to leave their coats and anyother unnecessary items in the waiting area, so the flu shots canbe given immediately upon entering the clinical room.

Those wishing to receive the flu vaccine should bring all neededmaterials, such as Medicare information and their social securitynumber, for quicker service.

People who are physically unable to bring the information andget the shot inside the health department can be assisted by healthdepartment employees. A family member should bring neededinformation to the front desk, then employees can go to theperson’s vehicle to administer the vaccine.

“We aim to please, and we’ll do whatever we can to help peopleout,” said Smith about their extra efforts.

Health officials are glad so many people were able to takeadvantage of the benefits of the flu vaccination.

“We want everyone to come on and get vaccinated. The sooner theycome in, the better,” said Calcote.

Officials believe the rest of the week may not be busy asMonday, but conditions look favorable for hundreds of more peopleto get vaccinated.

“The weather has been beautiful, which makes it better for theolder people to get out,” said Nelline Reed, office manager.

The vaccinations are currently only accessible to people athigh-risk for getting the flu. Those who are considered low-riskwill be able to get the flu shot in a couple of weeks, which shouldbe in plenty of time to be vaccinated before flu season is expectedto arrive in January.

If anyone is concerned about whether they should get a flu shotbecause of existing health conditions, they should consult theirdoctor before going to the health department.