Vernon Offering 'No Cost To You' Flu Vaccination Clinic This Week

VERNON, CT — The nationally recognized vaccination program sponsored by the town of Vernon in partnership with Ellington-based Priority Urgent Care of Ellington is turning its sights on the flu this week.

Blessed Sacrament Parish in the Rockville section of Vernon will be hosting a "No Cost To You" flu vaccination clinic Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m. at St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard's Terrace.

The clinic is open to everyone. People with health insurance will be asked to present their insurance card, but will not be billed beyond what their insurance company pays. Those without insurance will not be charged.

"We are pleased to offer this opportunity for a convenient flu vaccination," Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said.
"All are welcome to attend our clinic."

Getting a flu shot is worth considering, said Michael Purcaro, Vernon's town administrator and emergency and
risk management director.

"Over the past 18 months the public has been acutely focused on protecting themselves and their loved
ones from COVID-19," Purcaro said. "It's important to not lose sight of other health priorities, such as eating
well, exercising regularly, addressing your emotional health, scheduling routine and preventative medical
appointments, and keeping up to date on other vaccinations."

Flu vaccinations are a simple way to help prevent folks from getting what can become a serious illness, Dr.
Daksh Rampal of Priority Urgent Care said.

“The flu is a dangerous illness, especially to the elderly, children and people who have chronic conditions," Rampal said. "A seasonal flu shot offers safe and effective protection against illness and is recommended by medical and public health experts."

The clinic will take place in the St. Bernard Church parking lot. In the event of inclement weather, the clinic will
be moved into the church hall.

"As a parish, we are called to serve our community," said the rev. Rick Ricard of St. Bernard Church. "We are
delighted to offer our church facilities to help with this important community service and public health
initiative."

For more information about the influenza vaccine, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/preven...