Salem launches flu shot push to hit 400 vaccinations

The City of Salem announced Oct. 29 a campaign called Salem 400+, aiming to get 400 additional residents vaccinated against the flu this fall.

The city says vaccinations protect not just the person getting the shot but also neighbors who are more vulnerable to illness, including newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Residents can get flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at city-sponsored clinics or through participating pharmacies and health care providers. Several free, walk-in clinics require no insurance. Upcoming sessions include Lifebridge Main Campus at 56 Margin Street on Nov. 3 from 1 to 5 p.m., the Community Care Van Clinic at the Salem Pantry, 47 Leavitt Street, on Nov. 4 from 1 to 6 p.m., Nov. 13 from 2 to 6 p.m. and Nov. 18 from 1 to 6 p.m., St. Peter's Episcopal Church at 24 St. Peter Street on Dec. 6 from 10 to 11 a.m., and Immaculate Conception Church at 15 Hawthorne Boulevard on Dec. 13 at 10:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

The city notes flu shots at pharmacies may carry a cost depending on insurance, and recommends uninsured residents use the free community clinics instead.

The announcement also addresses common questions: flu shots cannot cause the flu because they contain no live virus, protection from last year's shot fades and this year's version is updated for expected strains, and flu and COVID-19 shots can be given at the same visit. Residents with questions can contact the Salem Health Department at 978-741-1800.

Source: Town of Salem announcement, October 30, 2026.

Checked against the record: before publication this article was automatically compared with the original announcement.