Bloomington influenza vaccination champion credits team's efforts

Flu season is an annual concern for individuals with high risk factors and the healthcare facilities that care for those who become sick enough to need medical intervention. But anyone can get influenza and everyone plays a part in combating this illness.

“During an average flu season, the virus can cause millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths,” says Lindsay Shipley, RN, with the Community Health team in Bloomington and Nurse Supervisor for the Monroe County Public Health Clinic. “Receiving a flu shot remains the most effective way to combat the influenza virus.”

Shipley’s flu vaccination efforts recently earned her the High Flyer Award—Influenza Vaccination Champion from the Indiana Immunization Coalition for her work to help increase the percentage of children ages 6 months to 8 years who are up to date on the annual influenza vaccine.

“I am humbled to receive this award, but it truly reflects the remarkable team effort of my staff,” says Shipley. “They are wholeheartedly dedicated to serving and meeting the needs of others, and I am proud to represent them and all that we have accomplished together.”

She explains how she and her team administered an unprecedented number of influenza vaccines in 2024 outside their facility at schools, nursing homes, shelters and other community sites.

“This experience has been incredibly valuable to me, as it has enabled me to provide care to patients of all ages.”