State says vaccines firm gave at Central Ky. workplaces caused infections, may not have immunized; delayed reaction possible

Photo via Lexington Herald-Leader

The state Department for Public Health says infections have resulted from vaccines distributed by a Mount Sterling company to workplaces in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio since Sept. 1.

Location Vaccination “provided vaccines primarily at businesses in Central Kentucky,” Karla Ward reports for the Lexington Herald-Leader. The health department said the firm has stopped giving vaccinations, but “Individuals previously vaccinated by this provider could develop an infection,” the department said. “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.”

State Health Commissioner Jeff Howard advised, “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. It is important that individuals vaccinated by this company seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.”

The department said people receiving the vaccines “have experienced redness, pain or tenderness, swelling, and the development of hard lumps, or nodules, at the injection site.”

Howard said, “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.” 

The company is “owned and operated by Fairshinda Sabounchi McLaughlin under the medical license of Dr. Paul E. McLaughlin,” the health department said.

The department said any business that believes Location Vaccination, or anyone representing it, provided a vaccine to their employees should tell their employees immediately and contact the department at (502) 564-3418.