With flu cases on the rise across Massachusetts, as reported this week by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Dedham Health Department is reminding all residents that protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu starts with vaccination and continues with simple, everyday healthy habits.

"Getting your annual flu vaccine is the single best way to reduce your risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications," said Dedham Public Health Nurse Katie Paciorkowski. "Combined with preventative actions like washing your hands and staying home when sick, we can work together to keep our community healthy this season."

The Health Department recommends the following key healthy habits to prevent the spread of flu:

• Get your annual flu vaccine and we can help you do that! This is the best first step to preventing the spread of the flu
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when you're sick until symptoms improve and you're fever-free for 24 hours
• Cover coughs and sneezes to prevent those around you from getting sick
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water to protect from germs, and use alcohol-based sanitizer if soap is not available
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent the spread of germs
• Breathe clean air by opening windows to bring in fresh air or spend time outside
• Practice good hygiene and maintain healthy habits like getting adequate sleep and eating nutritious foods

Get Your Flu Shot With Us

Dedham residents can schedule flu vaccination appointments online at bit.ly/Dedham-Vaccines or by calling 781-751-9220.

Additional Resources: Free COVID and Flu Test Kits

COVID and flu test kits are available at no charge for Dedham residents at the Health Department while supplies last.

Dedham’s Public Health Nurse is Here for YOU

Your Public Health Nurse right here in Dedham supports the health and well-being of all our residents at no cost. From vaccinations and childhood immunizations to health screenings, homebound visits, and infectious disease monitoring, Catie works tirelessly to protect public health and be a local resource to all in need.

For more information about flu prevention or to schedule an appointment, contact the Dedham Health Department at 781-751-9220.