Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to:
1. Discuss key operational components of a mass vaccination exercise
2. Identify potential barriers for vaccinating high-risk groups
3. Discuss the application of lessons learned to future exercises


Background:
The Unified Health Command (UHC) in Yellowstone County is primarily comprised of the area's three major healthcare entities: Yellowstone City-County Health Department (YCCHD), Billings Clinic, and St. Vincent Healthcare. To test the public health system's capacity to mass vaccinate the Yellowstone County community using the Incident Command Structure, and to provide a public benefit of influenza (flu) vaccination, the UHC organized a mass flu vaccination clinic.

Setting:
The exercise was held at a large multipurpose structure in Billings, Montana on Friday, October 27, 2006 from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The facility is centrally located and familiar to the community.

Population:
The target population was all residents of Yellowstone County (population 137,000), aged 6 months and older. The exercise planned for 10,000 community members to be vaccinated.

Project Description:
The goal of the exercise was to vaccinate the public against flu in a safe and efficient manner. PSAs were broadcast on television, radio, and the YCCHD website. Intranasal and injectable vaccines were used, depending on age and potential contraindications. Stations were organized in a logical fashion directing participants through registration, triage (for contraindication screening), billing, vaccination, and observation/evaluation. The goal was to move participants from entrance to exit in under 15 minutes.

Results/Lessons Learned:
Approximately 6,400 community members participated in the event. Participant evaluations, staff evaluations, and data estimating the number of people vaccinated per hour and the length of time people spent from entrance to exit will be included in the analysis and lessons learned.