BCBSRI sponsoring flu clinics

PROVIDENCE – Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is partnering with other organizations to sponsor flu clinics offering free vaccinations for walk-ins through December.
BCBSRI has also distributed over 2,700 “Flu Fighter Kits” – backpacks containing flu education materials to 18 community agencies providing aftercare to elementary-aged schoolchildren across the state.
Kids from the Learning Community in Central Falls receive Flu Fighter education kits as a part of BCBSRI’s Blue Across Rhode Island, the company’s statewide day of service.
BCBSRI has administered its free flu shot program for the past eight years. Last year, BCBSRI administered vaccines to nearly 750 people, most of whom lacked health insurance, at 34 sites and aims to maintain the same service levels this year.
“Getting an annual flu shot is a simple yet highly effective action everyone can take to keep our communities healthy,” said Carolyn Belisle, managing director of community relations at BCBSRI. “Blue Cross is committed to helping ensure that all Rhode Islanders, with or without insurance, have the opportunity to receive this vaccination this season.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive a seasonal flu shot. The shot is not recommended for people who are allergic to chicken eggs or who have experienced a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination in the past.
December clinic dates are still being arranged, but the following clinics are scheduled:
Nov. 7, from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at Diwali Fest, 848 Park Ave., Cranston; Nov. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Progreso Latino, 112 Washington St., Central Falls, and Nov. 18, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the MLK Center, 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport.
Schedules are subject to change.
BCBSRI members can get their flu vaccination with no out-of-pocket cost by visiting their primary care provider, a local pharmacy participating in its flu vaccine program or a flu clinic.
For more information, visit www.bcbsri.com.

No posts to display