PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Northern Light AR Gould Hospital will be offering a series of seasonal flu shot clinics in October. The schedule includes four clinics for adults, with three of those being offered via the popular drive-up option, as well as one pediatric clinic.
“Getting a flu shot is one of the most important things people can do to remain healthy during the flu season,” says Julie Tutt, manager of infection prevention at the hospital. “Any side effects are minor and last a very short time, and, contrary to what some believe, you cannot get the flu as a result of getting vaccinated.”
Studies also show that even when flu vaccination does not prevent illness entirely, it provides the benefit of reducing the severity of illness.
The schedule for the adult flu shot clinics will be:
Mars Hill: Thursday, Oct. 5, 4–6 p.m. (drive up)
In the parking lot of Central Aroostook High School – 26 Pleasant Street
Presque Isle: Saturday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Northern Maine Community College gymnasium – 33 Edgemont Drive
This flu shot clinic is taking place as part of the hospital’s Fall Health Fair. In addition to flu shots, people can get a cholesterol screening, blood pressure check, and much more.
Caribou: Saturday, Oct. 14, 9–11 a.m. (drive up)
In the parking lot of Northern Light Caribou Health Center – 118 Bennett Drive
Fort Fairfield: Saturday, Oct. 14, 1–3 p.m. (drive up)
In the parking lot of Northern Light Fort Fairfield Health Center – 23 High Street
Both regular and high dose flu shots will be available at these clinics. Individuals must be at least 18 years of age. Wearing a short sleeved shirt is recommended for easier access for receiving the shot. Participants are also asked to bring their insurance card with them, as the hospital will be billing insurance companies for the vaccine. This cost is covered by most insurances with no cost to the patient.
The pediatric flu shot clinic will be:
Saturday, Oct. 28, 9–11 a.m.
Northern Light Pediatrics, North Street Healthcare, 23 North Street
While this clinic is intended for those aged 6 months to 18 years, adult shots will also be available for those accompanying the children who want one. Again, please bring your insurance card. The pediatric shot itself is free; however, there will be a small fee for administering the shot submitted to your insurance company. MaineCare and most insurances will cover this fee with no cost to the patient.
Anyone who is not feeling well or experiencing any infectious disease symptoms is asked to wait until they are feeling better to get their flu shot.
