Health board to distribute flu vaccines on Election Day

By Owen Boss

GARDNER — As flu season approaches, the Board of Health is preparing to distribute more than 600 vaccinations to residents across the city. According to Health Director Bernie Sullivan, the city-sponsored clinic will be held between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Nov. 4 at Waterford Street School. “We are going to hold them the same day as Election Day because that is the day that Waterford Street School is going to be available,” said Mr. Sullivan. “The school system helps us tremendously by making the school available to us.” Mr. Sullivan said the event was made possible through volunteers from Mount Wachusett Community College, who devote their time every year. “We receive significant amounts of muscle power from the Mount’s nursing program,” said Mr. Sullivan. “Their faculty shows up and acts as nursing supervisors and the students handle the majority of the injections.” Although the clinic has been held at other locations over the years, Mr. Sullivan said the school is ideal for residents looking for vaccinations. “We used the school last year and found that the site works perfectly,” said Mr. Sullivan. “It just moves very smoothly, it provides a really good site for us to set up the area and there is plenty of parking.” At a recent Public Safety Committee meeting, Councilor Josh Cormier asked Mr. Sullivan if the amount of vaccinations had been rising or declining over the last several years. “We are getting about 660 doses, which is up from where we once were,” said Mr. Sullivan. “We have been getting 660 for the last two or three years and we use all of it every time which is a good thing.” Mr. Cormier also inquired about whether or not the Board of Health distributes the vaccines to alternative area health outlets. “We do supply all of the local pediatricians’ offices and that doesn’t come from our supply of 660, that is from an additional allotment,” said Mr. Sullivan. Residents who are unable to receive their vaccinations through the city can attend other private clinics sponsored by area businesses. “Stop & Shop has two dates already scheduled and we can make those dates available to anyone who calls looking for information and the Community Health Center is also holding a clinic,” said Mr. Sullivan. oboss@thegardnernews.com

Appeared on Page 3 on 10/3/2008 (Vol. 206 No. 234)