Flu Season Has Arrived Early in Greenwich

Even though it’s weeks before the annual flu season typically kicks in, Greenwich already has had one reported case of influenza.

Town Health Director Caroline Baisley said, “It’s an early start. Usually we start to see it in November and December. We’ve had one reported case and that’s not to say it’s all of the cases. Sometimes the doctors treat the symptoms and don’t report it.”

And with the fluctuating weather of warm spells in between cooler fall air, Baisley said, “The weather is throwing everyone off in terms of getting their flu shots.”

To help ward off the fever, chills and body aches associated with the flu, Baisley’s staff is continuing their flu shot clinics this week and next. On Thursday evening, Oct. 23, residents can receive shots from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center, 449 Pemberwick Rd. Another clinic is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Greenwich Town Hall, 101 Field Point Rd.

The health department has held three clinics so far this month and Baisley said traffic of residents seeking the shots is less than last year. While hard numbers weren’t available, Baisley said she attributes the lower demand to the wider availability of the shots at chain and supermarket pharmacies.

One shot that the Greenwich Health Department is offering this year is the shingles vaccine for persons at least 60 years of age. “The shingles vaccine isn’t widely available. Some doctors don’t have it yet but we do here at the health department,” Baisley said. The health department also is offering pneumonia immunization for $58. (Medicare Advantage Plans do not cover pneumonia immunizations received at public clinics.)

Here’s what you need know if you’re planning on getting your shot at one of the clinics:

• Participants 65 years of age or older must bring their Medicare Advantage ID Card/Traditional Medicare Part B Card or a fee of $35.00 will be charged for influenza immunizations. (Seasonal and Fluzone High Dose)
• The charge for shingles vaccine (for persons 60 years and older) is $180 (limited quantities at clinics – cash/check only – no insurance billing).
• Medicaid will not be accepted. Credit cards will not be accepted.
• People between the ages of 9 and 64 will be charged a $35 fee for influenza immunizations and/or $58 for pneumonia immunizations. Checks should be made payable to the “Town of Greenwich” and if paying with cash, exact change will be appreciated.
• Short sleeves and attendance no earlier than 15 minutes before the start of the clinic will be appreciated.

The public is encouraged to call 203-622-3774 prior to attending any clinic.

Photo credit: Flickr.com.

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