Smithfield Schedules Flu Shot Clinic For Saturday

The CDC reports an elevated number of flu cases in the US, with the RI Department of Health reporting widespread flu, so Smithfield is setting up a vaccination clinic Saturday for you, if you're still healthy.

In an effort to increase the number of Smithfield residents vaccinated against the flu, Smithfield is hosting a public vaccination clinic on Saturday, Jan. 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Smithfield Senior Center, 1 William J. Hawkins Trail. Residents aged six months and older are strongly encouraged to receive vaccination from the flu (the “flu shot”) if they have not already received one this flu season.

The RI Department of Health has listed a number of other public health clinics throughout the state.

Outside of government clinics, demand for vaccinations is creating sporadic shortages. "Due to high demand caused by the outbreaks of influenza across the country, some of our locations are experiencing sporadic shortages of flu vaccine," said Mike DeAngelis, director of Public Relations for CVS. 

"CVS/pharmacy has been providing flu shots since early fall and the current high demand is unprecedented for this time of year. We are making every effort to resupply our pharmacies and clinics with vaccine as needed,' DeAngelis said.

“Over the last several years, the town has been very aggressive in providing opportunities for our residents to receive vaccinations for a range of preventable illnesses.  Because of the widespread flu cases throughout the state as well as across the country, the town has decided to sponsor another community-wide flu clinic to fight against this year’s aggressive flu season,” said Town Manager Dennis Finlay.

Residents interested in participating in the vaccination clinic may walk-in at any time between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. An administration fee will be billed to health insurers, but any resident without health insurance will be provided a flu shot at no charge.

Residents already suffering with flu symptoms should seek medical care by contacting their primary care physicians.