Boston, Mass. — The Boston Public Health Commission is offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at clinics across the city from September through December as respiratory virus season begins.
The commission said the clinics are intended to make vaccines easier to access by bringing them to schools, community centers, workplaces and other locations. BPHC is partnering with Boston Public Schools, Boston Centers for Youth and Families, the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, labor unions, Massport and community organizations.
“Vaccination is the safest and most effective tool we have to reduce the risk of serious illness from respiratory viral illness, like the flu,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “By hosting free vaccine clinics where residents already spend much of their time, we are making great strides towards ensuring that vaccines are accessible to all.”
Flu vaccination is strongly recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. Young children, older adults and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable to severe illness.
During the 2025-2026 flu season, 364 people in Massachusetts died from the flu, including two children in Boston, according to BPHC.
COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for children ages 6 to 23 months, adults 65 and older, healthcare workers and people at higher risk of severe disease, including those who are immunocompromised, pregnant or lactating. People who live with members of those groups are also encouraged to receive the vaccine.
All BPHC clinics will offer free flu and COVID-19 vaccines. No appointment, insurance or identification is required, although residents with health insurance are encouraged to bring their insurance card.
Upcoming clinics include Sept. 23 at BCYF Curtis Hall; Sept. 24 at BCYF Vine Street; Sept. 28 at BCYF Paris Street; Oct. 1 at BCYF Perkins; Oct. 7 at the Josephine Fiorentino Community Center; Oct. 8 at BCYF Roslindale; and Oct. 17 at BCYF Hyde Park.
Additional clinic dates and locations are available at boston.gov/vaccine-clinics.
BPHC has used American Rescue Plan Act funding to support the clinics, but that funding is scheduled to end in December. The commission said it is exploring other ways to continue improving vaccine access in communities disproportionately affected by respiratory illnesses.
This year, BPHC, Massport and labor unions are also offering free on-site vaccinations to Logan Airport employees. BPHC is providing in-home vaccinations for older adults who may have difficulty traveling to a clinic or pharmacy.
Residents may also obtain vaccines through healthcare providers, community health centers and pharmacies.
People with symptoms of respiratory illness are encouraged to stay home when possible, wear a mask when sick or at high risk, keep COVID-19 and flu rapid tests available, and contact a healthcare provider if they test positive and are at increased risk for severe illness.
BPHC also recommends regular handwashing, cleaning high-touch surfaces, covering coughs and improving indoor ventilation.
