Natick Hosting 2 October Flu Clinics

NATICK, MA — Flu season is coming, and Natick officials are making sure that residents have multiple opportunities to get a flu shot.

The town has scheduled two flu clinics for October, the first on Oct. 14 and the second on Oct. 18. Here are the details:

• Oct. 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 75 West St., Natick. Pre-register here.
• Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 117 E. Central St., Natick. Pre-register here.

As is typical, healthcare professionals recommend getting the flu vaccine in September or October if you are 6 months and older.

“Getting your annual flu shot should be at the top of your fall to-do list because vaccination is the best way to decrease the risk of severe illness and hospitalization from the flu especially if you are older, very young, pregnant, or have a weakened immune system,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission. “If you are at higher risk and develop flu symptoms, reach out to your health care provider. Treatment may be available. ”

As for what flu season may look like in 2023-2024, it's possible the country could see another early spike.

Infectious disease epidemiologist David Dowdy, who is also a professor in Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins, said in a recent interview that it's "a bit more likely" an early flu season will happen because last year's season was pushed forward.