The Department for Public Health (DPH) is investigating multiple infections associated with vaccinations given by Location Vaccination at various businesses in Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana since Sept. 1, 2018.  The Mt. Sterling-based vaccine provider is owned and operated by Fairshinda Sabounchi McLaughlin under the medical license of Dr. Paul E. McLaughlin.

Individuals with vaccination-associated infections related to this provider have experienced redness, pain or tenderness, swelling, and the development of hard lumps, or nodules, at the injection site. Though Location Vaccination has stopped administering immunizations, it is still possible individuals previously vaccinated by this provider could develop an infection. Symptoms may start from a few days to more than 12 weeks after vaccination. Medical care is advised since infections will likely not get better on their own.

“If you received vaccine from this provider, we strongly encourage you to consider getting another round to ensure you are fully immunized and not at risk for contracting illness,” said Dr. Jeff Howard, DPH commissioner. “We believe negative side effects associated with this investigation to be linked to improper storage and handling of the vaccine. We want to emphasize that there is no evidence to suggest that there is an issue with the vaccine supply.  The provider has stopped vaccinating and there is no continuing risk to the public.”

DPH has notified medical providers of this situation. Current evidence suggests that these infections were caused by contamination and that the vaccinations may not be effective. Any businesses who believe Location Vaccination (or anyone representing this company) provided vaccination to their employees should notify their employees immediately and contact DPH at (502) 564-3418. Most of the vaccinations were administered at businesses in central Kentucky but Location Vaccination provided services in other areas of the Commonwealth as well as locations in Indiana and Ohio.

“It is important that individuals vaccinated by this company seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment,” added Dr. Howard.

DPH continues to strongly encourage vaccination to protect against hepatitis A, seasonal influenza and all vaccine-preventable diseases.

Additional information is available at http://chfs.ky.gov/.