Flu shot clinics in Boston as health leaders hope to get ahead of potentially severe season

BOSTON — The Boston Public Health Commission is hosting a flu shot clinic Wednesday as leaders work to get ahead of what’s expected to be a severe flu season.

The clinic runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in room 801 at Boston City Hall.

In a press release, the BPHC said pediatric intensive care units and children’s hospitals in Boston are already experiencing noticeable increases in patient volume because of the new school year and changes in the weather.

“Like many hospitals across the country, Boston Children’s Hospital is experiencing high patient volume and an increase in wait times,” a spokesperson for Boston Children’s Hospital said in a statement to Boston 25 News. “The volume is being driven by higher levels of seasonal and respiratory illness and the ongoing behavioral health crisis. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our process as needed to ensure we are protecting the health, safety, and well-being of our patients and families as well as our staff.”

The statement continued, saying Boston Children’s Hospital encourages families to first contact their primary care practitioners as they can help determine clinical care and treatment options that potentially avoid long wait times.

“Getting your annual flu shot is one of the best ways to stay healthy this winter as we prepare to spend more time indoors with friends and family,” said Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of the BPHC Dr. Bisola Ojikutu. “Being vaccinated against the flu and staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations are essential for preventing severe illness.”

Boston health leaders said a combination of COVID-19 and flu cases could put a major strain on the city’s healthcare system, and they’re hoping to avoid that by encouraging people to get vaccinated early in the season.

The city is hosting a second vaccine clinic from 1 to 5 p.m. at Boston City Hall on Monday, Oct. 17. Walk-ins are welcome and COVID-19 vaccines will be available in addition to flu shots.

The most common symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue.

“If you get the flu, remember to stay home to avoid spreading it to others and to get plenty of rest and hydration to support your recovery,” said Ojikutu.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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