High-Dose Flu Vaccines For Eligible Arlington Seniors on a First-Come, First-Serve Basis

The Arlington Health Department has purchased high-dose flu vaccine for eligible Arlington seniors ages 65 and older.

Seniors are at a greater risk of severe illness from the flu as immune defenses weaken with age, according to health officials. The high-dose vaccine contains four times the amount of antigen (which prompts the body to make antibodies) than contained in regular flu shots and creates a stronger immune response. This offers greater protection against potential influenza infection.

All Arlington seniors must be screened prior to receiving the high-dose vaccine.

The Health Department has 150 doses of the high-dose vaccine, which will be administered to eligible Arlington seniors on a first come, first serve basis. There is no charge for the flu shot if you have a participating insurance provider.

For more information on the high-dose flu shot, participating insurance provider information, or to register, please call the Arlington Council on Aging at 781-316-3400. Leave your name and phone number and a nurse will follow up for screening purposes and to assign a specific appointment time.

If you are not eligible for the high dose vaccine, the Arlington Health Department is also hosting a regular flu clinic for seniors onThursday, September 24 from 10:00am to noon at the Senior Center, ground floor conference room. No appointment is necessary for the September 24 clinic.