Out of Doses: Seasonal Flu Shot Clinics Canceled

Distributor Ran Out of Doses to Send

The Visiting Nurses Association of Southeastern Connecticut has canceled the seasonal flu shot clinics it had scheduled at local senior centers this month, after their vaccine distributor ran out of doses.

At least a dozen clinics have been canceled, including one for local and town employees, a clinic at a soup kitchen and a homeless shelter.

VNA President Mary Lenzini said the distributor only sent 810 of the 5,000 doses the organization had ordered, and had no more to send.

The VNA has placed an order with another distributor to receive more of the vaccine by the end of November or December, but it is not clear exactly when it will arrive.

Lenzini advised people who want a flu shot to contact their doctor or go to one of the local stores that provides them like Walmart or Target.

The 810 doses the VNA received have been used to vaccinate home-bound patients, direct care staff and VNA school nurses who work with young children.

Lenzini said the VNA placed its order in July and prepaid.  They are expecting a $40,000 refund from the distributor.

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