TOWNSHEND — Grace Cottage Family Health, 185 Grafton Rd., will offer a flu vaccine clinic on Saturday, Oct. 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration is recommended (802-365-4331); walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows.
You do not need to be an established patient at Grace Cottage.
Masks are required, and anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
During the flu clinic, Grace Cottage will also host a food drive for the Townshend Food Shelf. If you can, bring a non-perishable food item.
Most insurance covers a flu shot as a preventive health measure; bring your ID and insurance card with you. Those not insured must pay for the shot. Flu shot price for those uninsured depends on several variables. Ask about pricing when you call for an appointment.
The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a yearly flu vaccine. People over age 65 or those with any chronic disease, such as diabetes or asthma, have a higher risk of contracting the flu and are especially urged to get the shot. It takes about two weeks for protection to develop after vaccination.
Two vaccine formulas are being offered this year, one for those ranging from 6 months to 64 years old, and the other for those who are 65 and older.
Flu shots are also available to Grace Cottage established patients weekdays by appointment. Call 802-365-4331.
More information about flu shots or the flu in general is available from the CDC, the Vermont Department of Health, or from the Vermont 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1, or visit vermont211.org).