Free Sharon Flu Clinics Start Soon

The Sharon Health Department is offering residents a shot in the arm -- or, in some cases, a mist to inhale, if preferred.

The flu clinics start Oct. 12.

The board of health has purchased about 700 doses of the vaccine -- all free to residents, regardless of the person's insurance status, Sharon Public Health Nurse Sheila Miller said Thursday. Sharon had about 400 doses last year, she said.

This year, the board's revolving fund enabled such a large purchase while the state reduced its supply of free adult flu vaccine, she said.

Yearly flu shots are important, Miller said.

"The flu vaccine is a waning immunizing shot," she said.

"They need to have a flu shot every single year."

The clinic schedule is:

• Thursday, Oct. 13 from 9 to 11:30 a.m., .

For all Sharon residents age 5 and up. Injectable vaccine only.

• "Kids only" clinic: Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 5 to 7:30 p.m., Sharon Community Center.

Intra-nasal spray or injectable vaccine for ages 5 to 18; for Sharon residents as well as those attending Sharon schools. Parents must accompany their children.

• Monday, Nov. 7 from 6 to 8:30 p.m., .

For all Sharon residents ages 5 and up. Injectable vaccine only.

Health officials are asking residents to bring their health insurance number and their Medicare and all other health insurance cards, for reimbursement purposes.

However, the vaccine will be provided for free regardless of insurance status, Miller said.

Also, individuals should wear short sleeves to the clinics, she said.

"We tell people 'Don't come at the beginning, because that's when everybody comes,'" Miller added.