Flu Clinic

(February 7, 2018) East Hartford, CT – Mayor Marcia Leclerc and health officials in the Town of East Hartford urge residents who have not yet received the 2017-2018 flu vaccine to consider obtaining it on Saturday, February 17th at the East Hartford Town Hall. The Health Department is sponsoring a flu clinic on this date from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Town Hall at 740 Main St. in East Hartford.  I.D. and insurance cards are required. Clinic staff will vaccinate children age 4 and over and adults. Reservations are not necessary.

The Health Department Flu Vaccine Clinic is co-sponsored by Hartford Health Care and Healthy Choices-Fast Vax.

“People should still get vaccinated despite the fact that flu season is already in full swing,” said Health Director Jim Cordier. “It usually takes about two weeks to acquire optimal immunity but Connecticut’s season may not peak until a month from now.” He added, “Even if this season’s vaccine effectiveness against the H3N2 strain is low, the vaccine will help protect against hospitalization and severe illness from H3N2 disease and it will also provide protection against the H1N1 and two strains of B influenza. During many flu seasons, Type B influenza cases are seen later in the season so receiving a flu vaccine now can help protect against late season illness. Flu season this year may extend well past May.”

Mayor Marcia Leclerc said, “There have not been any inquiries by residents nor vaccine shortages reported by our safety net comprised of primary care providers, community health centers or pharmacies in our community.  People can still get vaccinated at any of these places at their convenience. We are hosting this clinic as a back-up to help ensure that all residents are given every opportunity to protect themselves and their families from illness during a particularly bad flu season.”

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should practice frequent hand washing, use waterless hand cleaners when water is unavailable, avoid those who are ill, stay at home if sick with the flu and practice cough/sneeze etiquette (i.e., cough/sneeze into the bend of an elbow). Antiviral medications may also be prescribed by one’s doctor.