Bedford Health Department Announces 2021-2022 Flu Clinic Schedule

~ Submitted by the Bedford Health Department

In an effort to protect people who live and work in Bedford from getting the flu, the Bedford Health Department has scheduled FREE flu clinics during the months of October and November at the Town Campus on Mudge Way.

The flu clinics are free and open to those who live or work in Bedford and are 6 months of age and older. High-dose flu shots are available for those 65 years and older.

Clinic Schedule and How to Register

Clinics are scheduled on the following dates:

Saturday, 9:00 – 11:00 am ~ October 16th
Register here: https://FluVaccineRegistration.as.me/SaturdayTownDriveThrough

Mondays, 4:30 – 6:30 pm ~ October 18th and 25th and November 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd
Register here: https://fluvaccineregistration.as.me/MondayTownDriveThrough

The flu clinics will be via a drive-thru (in-vehicle) model under the tent located behind the Town Center (Yellow) Building at 12 Mudge Way.

If you do not have a vehicle and would like to receive a vaccine, please contact the Health Department at 781-275-6507.

Please continue to check the above registration links for up-to-date information on clinic offerings as expanded appointment opportunities and additional clinic dates may be added in the future.

School-based clinics at the Middle School and High School will be scheduled, to provide opportunities for Bedford Public School children in those schools to be vaccinated in a school-based clinics, during the school day. These clinics will be announced in the coming weeks.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Health Department  at 781-275-6507 or visit our Flu Clinic webpage at: https://www.bedfordma.gov/bedford-board-of-health/pages/flu-clinic-information-community.

At the Clinic

You must have an appointment bring your completed registration form with you to the clinic to receive a vaccine.

You will be required to register online in advance of attendance at a clinic. Once you choose an appointment, you will then be directed to download, print, and complete a registration form, including your insurance information. Please make a separate appointment and print a separate form for EACH person in your vehicle receiving a flu vaccination.

Provided you meet all the pre-screening requirements on the day of vaccination, vaccination appointments guarantee you a vaccine. Please do not arrive early, as arriving early provides no benefit and may result in a longer wait time.

Please wear a mask and clothing that allows for easy access to your arm for vaccine administration. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Why are Flu Shots Important Now?

Reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, like flu, this fall and winter is more important than ever. The flu season traditionally starts in September and ends in April, with a peak in cases from January through March. Based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bedford Health Department urges you to take the following three actions to protect yourself against a flu infection:

1. A yearly flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting yourself against flu.
2. Everyday Preventive Actions. Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If you are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home and rest. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough. Because flu-like symptoms can be similar to COVID-19 symptoms, if you have symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider to discuss whether you require a COVID-19 test.
3. There are anti-viral drugs that can treat influenza. Anti-viral drugs need to be used early to be effective. If you have flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your medication treatment options.