It’s Not Too Late to Get A Flu Shot ~ Bedford Schedules Free Clinics

In an effort to protect people who live and work in Bedford from getting the flu, the Bedford Board of Health has scheduled a FREE flu clinic on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, from 2 pm to 3:45 pm in the Flint Room on the 2^nd Floor of the Town Center Building (yellow building behind Town Hall) located at 12 Mudge Way in Bedford.

Additionally, every Wednesday between January 22^th through February 19^th, 2020, from 2 pm to 3 pm, flu shots will be given in the Board of Health Office on the 2^nd Floor in the Town Center Building.

Please wear 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.

Before you arrive, save a step and click this link to view/download/print the flu clinic registration form.  Although the clinic is free of charge to you, the Board of Health asks you to bring your medical insurance cards so that we may be reimbursed for the administration of the vaccine.

For the registration forms and more information about the flu vaccine please click on the Flu Information link on the Board of Health website at www.bedfordma.gov/health.

About the Flu in 2020

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, seasonal flu cases are on the rise and the Bedford Board of Health has seen an increase of flu cases reported to us. Additionally,  an increase of flu-like illness has been reported at doctors’ offices, and in flu-related hospitalization nationwide. Thirty-four states, including Massachusetts, have reported widespread Influenza infection rates. Experts predict a harsh flu season this year.

It is expected that the number of flu cases will continue to rise in Massachusetts as the flu season typically peaks in February and through March.

Based on CDC recommendations, the Bedford Board of Health urges you to take the following three actions to protect against a flu infection:

1. Vaccination: CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting 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 flu-like illness, stay home and rest. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough.
3. Treatment: There are anti-viral drugs that can treat influenza. Anti-viral drugs need to be used early to be effective. You can talk to your doctor about prescribing this medication.

Currently, the CDC estimates at least 6.4 million flu illnesses, 55,000 hospitalizations and 2,900 deaths, including 27 pediatric deaths, from the flu nationally.