Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: December 27, 2001
Contact: Robert J. Marshall Jr., Ph.D., (401) 222-1017
Annemarie Beardsworth, (401) 222-2433

Final Public Flu Clinics Planned

Today, the Ocean State Adult Immunization Coalition (OSAIC) announced the final day of community-based public flu clinics on Saturday, January 5, 2002. These clinics are intended for high-risk individuals (aged 18+) as well as any other adult who wants their vaccination.

"It’s not too late to take advantage of this protection against the flu," said HEALTH Director Dr. Patricia A. Nolan. "It is especially important if you are in a high-risk group and haven’t yet been vaccinated."

People who are at high risk include anyone over the age of 50, anyone who lives in a long-term care facility, anyone with chronic heart or lung conditions (including asthma), anyone with diabetes, anyone with a blood disorder or who is immunocompromised, any woman in her second or third trimester of pregnancy, or anyone who lives with or has direct contact with a high-risk individual.

On Saturday, January 5, 2002, five clinics have been scheduled for the following times and locations.

Little Compton – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., VNA of Southeastern Mass. Office, 115 East Main Road

Providence – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Francis Cares Wellness Center, Weybosset Street (Flu shots at this clinic will be offered on a sliding-scale fee schedule)

Portsmouth – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., VNS of Newport and Bristol Counties office, 1184 East Main Road

Northern Rhode Island – 9 a.m. to noon, Stop & Shop, 595 North Smithfield Road (Park Square)

Warwick – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Warwick Mall

Flu shots at these clinics are $15 unless otherwise noted. Medicare Part B covers the cost of the flu shot. For more information on flu shots, visit HEALTH’s website at www.health.ri.gov