Viral Respiratory Illness Protection
Stay up to date on recommendations and data on viral respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19, RSV, and more. Find resources, guidance, and answers to common questions below.
Everyone ages six months and older is encouraged to get the updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Pregnant parents, babies, and older adults should consult their health care professional about RSV vaccinations. To help residents get vaccinated regardless of health insurance, the Boston Public Health Commission hosts free flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics across the city during the fall and winter.
For the latest guidance on viral respiratory illnesses, visit the CDC's website.
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Still have questions? Contact:
Boston Public Health Commission
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1010 Massachusetts Avenue
6th FloorBoston, MA 02118
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Free Flu/COVID-19 Vaccinations
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be provided at no cost. All clinics are for ages 6 months and up. You do not need an appointment; walk-ins are welcome. If you have insurance, please bring your insurance card with you. However, health insurance and identification are not required. If you are not insured, you can still receive free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
| Date and Time | Location and Details | Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
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Tuesday, October 29 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. |
BCYF Hyde Park Community Center 1179 River Street, Boston |
Hyde Park |
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Saturday, November 2 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. |
BCYF Mattahunt Community Center 100 Hebron Street, Boston |
Mattapan |
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Monday, November 4 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. |
BCYF Paris Street Community Center 112 Paris Street, Boston |
East Boston |
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Thursday, November 7 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
BCYF Curley Community Center 1663 Columbia Road, Boston |
South Boston |
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health also has vaccine clinics in Boston and across the State. For locations and registration, please visit the State's website.
You can also contact your healthcare provider, visit a local pharmacy, or visit the CDC’s Vaccine Finder to find an accessible vaccine clinic near you.
About Viral Respiratory Illnesses
AboutRespiratory viruses cause commonly known illnesses such as flu (influenza), COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and other illnesses that affect the organs involved in breathing.
Adults aged 65 and older, children younger than 5 years old, pregnant people, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for severe infections.
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Fever
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Chills
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Fatigue (tiredness)
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Cough
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Runny or Stuffy Nose
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Headache
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Symptoms may also include, but are not limited to, chest discomfort, decrease in appetite, diarrhea, muscle and/or body aches, loss of taste or smell, sneezing, sore throat, vomiting, wheezing.
There are many ways that you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from getting sick from respiratory illnesses.
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Stay up to date with your vaccinations.
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Stay home when you’re feeling sick.
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Practice proper hand hygiene by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer.
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Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing by using a tissue or your elbow.
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Wear a well-fitting mask, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
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Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces often.
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Increase indoor ventilation and air circulation by opening windows when possible.
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Have COVID-19 rapid test kits available at home if you have symptoms of COVID-19.
Learn more about the CDC’s guidance on respiratory virus treatment here. If you are at high risk for severe disease and/or illness, seek treatment from a trusted healthcare provider.
Common Illnesses
Related Resources
Related Resources
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Still have questions? Contact:
Boston Public Health Commission
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1010 Massachusetts Avenue
6th FloorBoston, MA 02118
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