Free flu and COVID vaccines available during The Big E

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)– Free vaccines for influenza (flu) and COVID-19 will be offered during the Big E.

The National Grange and the State Granges of New England are partnering with Families Fighting Flu and PharMerica to provide vaccinations to people of all ages during the fair.

Vaccine clinics will be held September 13 ^th -29 ^th from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the front lawn of the New England Grange building. People who plan on getting the shots should bring proof of insurance if they have it, but the vaccines will be given free of charge. Each person who receives a vaccine will also be given a $10 Starbucks gift certificate.

“The Big E is one of the country’s premier agricultural events, bringing together members of the local communities and drawing in crowds from across the country,” said National Grange President Christine Hamp.  “One of the guiding principles of the Grange is protecting the health and well-being of our communities.  Vaccines are an important and effective tool in helping to prevent the spread of disease, so we’re thrilled to offer these to attendees free-of-charge.”

“We were so pleased to be a part of the vaccine outreach at last year’s Big E and even happier to come back for a second year,” said Michele Slafkosky, Executive Director of Families Fighting Flu and New Hampshire resident.  “For 20 years, we have been sharing the stories of our families who have been severely impacted by influenza.  We are here to raise awareness of the important role that vaccination plays in keeping your family and our communities healthy.”

“Access is a huge barrier to vaccination across the country,” said T.J. Griffin, Chief Clinical Officer at PharMerica.  “It’s critical that vaccinators meet people where they are, and with the thousands of people who come through the Big E’s gates each day comes a great opportunity to offer them vaccinations.”

The organizations also held vaccine clinics during the Big E in 2023, during which time 3,500 were given. More information on the National Grange Vaccination Clinic can be found here.

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