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.
Get Vaccinated
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are provided to you at no cost. All clinics are for ages 6 months and up. No appointment necessary.
If you have insurance, please bring your insurance card with you. But, 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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Date and Time |
Tuesday, February 11 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. | |
Location and Details | BCYF Hyde Park Community Center 1179 River St., Hyde Park | |
Neighborhood | Hyde Park | |
Date and Time |
Wednesday, February 12 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. | |
Location and Details | BCYF Marshall Community Center 35 Westville St., Dorchester | |
Neighborhood | Dorchester | |
Date and Time |
Wednesday, February 12 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | |
Location and Details |
Roxbury Branch, Boston Public Library 149 Dudley St., Roxbury | |
Neighborhood | Roxbury | |
Date and Time |
Thursday, February 13 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. | |
Location and Details | Josephine Fiorentino Community Center 123 Antwerp St. Extension, Brighton | |
Neighborhood | Brighton |
Contact your healthcare provider, visit a local pharmacy, or visit the CDC’s Vaccine Finder to find an accessible vaccine clinic near you.
If you don't have health insurance, you can call the Mayor's Health Line at 617-534-5050 for support.
COVID-19 At-Home Test Kits
Free COVID-19 At-Home Test Kits are available to Boston residents. Kits are available at distribution hubs throughout the city.
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.