October 23, 2009
 
Free flu shots this weekend

GOFFSTOWN – As part of a public health exercise being conducted by Goffstown and New Boston Fire & Police Departments, Goffstown Emergency Management, SAU # 19, Goffstown / New Boston CERT and the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Safety, a clinic is being held to offer free seasonal flu vaccine on Saturday October 24, 2009. This clinic will be at the Goffstown High School and run from 9 am to noon. 

Vaccine will be on a first come, first served basis until it is gone. Those 9 years and older may receive the vaccine. Anyone is welcome, but the uninsured and underinsured are encouraged to participate. Seasonal flu is expected to cause illness this fall and winter, individuals are encouraged to get their seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible this fall. 

Goffstown is one of seven points of dispensing across the state that will be participating in New Hampshire’s largest ever public health exercise. Operation Rapid Rx is based on a simulated public health emergency and will focus on medical supplies management and distribution, emergency public information and warning, and emergency operations center capabilities. 

“This is a great opportunity for citizens of Goffstown and New Boston to receive the seasonal flu vaccine and to help local responders to prepare for a potential public health emergency,” said Richard O’Brien, Fire Chief.

Influenza is a serious disease of the lungs, nose, and throat. The illness is spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. Typical flu symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Complications of seasonal influenza can result, especially in people with chronic illness or with compromised immune systems. The CDC estimates that 36,000 people die each year from seasonal flu.

This clinic was made possible through funds provided by the United State Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health Emergency Preparedness Grant. 

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov and www.dhhs.state.nh.us, or contact Richard O’Brien, Fire Chief, at 603-497-3619