It's important to get vaccinated for flu and COVID every fall. October is best to cover the new strains of viruses that are circulating. 

• Flu shots: These last about six months. And it will take two weeks for you to reach full immunity. You want your flu vaccine to cover you when the levels of virus are highest (Dec.-Feb.) 

• COVID. Most people can get an annual COVID vaccine. Adults aged 65+ who are immuno-compromised may receive a COVID shot every 4-6 months. 

It's safe to get both your flu and COVID shots at the same time. 

Also, please consider other respiratory vaccines like Pneumonia vaccine and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus.) 

• Pneumonia: The latest pneumonia vaccine is Capvaxive-21. It protects against 21 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria that can cause pneumococcal pneumonia and was specifically designed for adult populations, including 8 unique serotypes not covered by Prevnar-20. Either vaccine is acceptable. Both are single dose. Both are indicated for adults 65+ or adults 50+ who are immuno-compromised or have respiratory issues like asthma or COPD. 

• RSV vaccine is one dose for those 75+ or between 50-74 with chronic conditions. It is also indicated for women 32-36 weeks pregnant during Sept-Jan. 

Other vaccines to consider:  

• Tetanus every 10 years (Td or combination TDap with pertussis) which covers whooping cough and is important if you are pregnant or there is a new baby in the family. 

• Shingrix: 2 doses for 50+ if you were exposed to chicken pox as a younger person or 19+ if you are immunocompromised. This vaccine prevents Shingles outbreak and long-term nerve pain that can follow an outbreak. It will also lower your risk of developing dementia by 17-33%. 

Please talk with your medical provider to find out if you are up to date with your vaccines or to discuss appropriate vaccines for you. If you need a local Primary Care Provider, Dorie Weir, NP at BRHC is accepting new patients and would be happy to discuss your vaccination status and your needs. 

Both Walgreen's and Nathan's Wellness Pharmacy and Apothecary in Boothbay Harbor supply and can administer these vaccines. Prescriptions for these vaccines are not needed. However, some health insurance companies may require you get the vaccine from an in-network pharmacy or provider to guarantee full coverage.