[The following was submitted by the Peabody Health Department.]

While supplies are available, the Peabody Health Department will be offering free seasonal influenza (flu) vaccinations by appointment on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 and again on Thursday, Dec. 20, for residents 10 years of age and older. Children under 18 MUST be accompanied byparents/guardians.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine each year. The flu vaccine is now widely available and is your best protection against the flu. Vaccine is available in the injectable format and the 2012-2013 influenza vaccine provides protection against Influenza A/H1N1 as well as two other influenza viruses, Influenza A/H3N2 and Influenza B.

“With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting significant increases in influenza activity in the United States over the past few weeks, it appears that flu season has started early. The good news is that most of the viruses characterized by the CDC so far this season are well-matched to the 2012-2013 influenza vaccine we have available. It is not too late to get your flu vaccine and we encourage everyone to get vaccinated in order to help keep you and your family healthy this season,” said Neia Illingworth, Public Health Nurse for the city of Peabody.

To schedule an appointment, please contact the Peabody Health Department at 978-538-5926.