Free Flu Clinic Today at Bowie Senior Center

Today at the Bowie Senior Center from 4 to 8 p.m. there will be a free seasonal flu vaccination clinic. The Health Department has supplied 600 vaccines, and as of Friday, only about 150 were accounted for. In past years, people were in and out in about 20 minutes, appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be accepted.

Both seasonal flu mist, (ages 2 –49) and seasonal flu shots (ages 3 and up) will be available. The clinic is being put on by the City of Bowie in partnership with the county health department and the .

This year the seasonal flu vaccine protects against several different strains of flu including the H1N1 virus. To learn more about the 2010 seasonal vaccine, you can call 301-883-7879 or visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website or the Prince George's Health Department website.

The CDC recommends that everyone get a flu shot this year. If you have questions about whether you should get a flu vaccine, consult your doctor. People that fit the following descriptions should definitely talk with their doctor before being vaccinated:

• Those who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs
• Those who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination in the past
• Those who developed Guillian-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting an influenza vaccine previously

It is preferred that you make an appointment to receive your free flu vaccination at today's clinic, call the City of Bowie at 301-809-3055. There are a few things they will need to know for you to make the appointment:

• Name
• Age
• Telephone number
• E-mail address
• Preference for shot or flu mist vaccine

(Please Note: Phone number and email address are requested in case the clinic is cancelled or reduced due to lack of vaccine supply from the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.)

There are a few more clinics being held in Prince George's County, for those who can't attend the local one today. Local public schools will also have vaccinations, and the county has arranged for children to get a vaccination for free at certain Shopper's Food Warehouse locations. Call the Prince George's County Health Line at 1-888-561-4049 or visit the county's website for more information.