Later This Month, Flu Vax Clinics Open At Libraries, Community Sites

NEW HAVEN, CT — During last year’s flu season (2022-2023), in Connecticut there were 1,838 influenza-related emergency department visits and 89 flu-related deaths. During this year’s flu season (September 2023-present), in New Haven, there have been 86 flu-related visits to the emergency room to date.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, young children, adults over 65, pregnant people and people with certain chronic health conditions are at a higher risk for getting extremely sick from the flu. However, getting vaccinated has been shown to cut the risk of getting the flu in half. In addition, there is a state mandate for children ages 3 - 4 in pre-K to get vaccinated for the flu by December 31, 2023 or they cannot return to school until April 1, 2024.

During National Influenza Vaccination Week, the New Haven Health Department is continuing to provide flu vaccines at the department’s clinic, distributing educational materials at local libraries and pediatrician offices, and promoting vaccinations on social media. Later this month, the Health Department will also be having community flu vaccine clinics at local libraries and sites.

Wednesday, New Haven Health Department Director Maritza Bond and Mayor Justin Elicker got their flu shots as a reminder that the influenza vaccine is necessary, and available.

A complete list of the Health’s Department’s community flu vaccine clinics and other vaccine information and resources can be found at NHVVAX.org or by calling 203-946-6999. A complete list of all flu vaccination locations in the city can be found at vaccines.gov.