LECOM hosted their first of 23 flu vaccination clinics, an annual series of clinics across Erie County with the goal of keeping the community healthy.

Vaccine coordinator Jim Caputo says they're already starting to see flu cases rise, and is working to make sure everyone gets the shot.

"We're offering basically the typical flu shots that are available for adults, but we can go down to nine years of age," said Caputo. 

"We have the traditional quadrivalent flu. We have what's called a high dose flu, that's one that's intended for those 65 and older if they desire...And then we also have a [vaccine] that's an egg free product. The other flu products are all developed within chicken embryos and eggs. So [this one's intended] for those who have a severe egg allergy."

The clinic had help from several nurses and LECOM Pharmacy students, who volunteered their time to help administer shots. 

Student volunteer Hope Spence reminds people why it's important to update your flu vaccine each year. 

"So a lot of people don't realize and they think, 'Oh, I was vaccinated last year so I'm covered,'" said Spence. "But every single year [the flu is] going to change a little bit. So you have to get that new flu shot or else you're not going to be protected."

And the clinic's multiple locations can make it faster, easier, and more accessible for people across Erie County to get their flu vaccine. 

"It's very handy and always speedy," said Ruth Church, an elderly patient getting her flu vaccine with her daughter, Linda Swab.

"I bring my mom every year," said Swab. "She will be 99 on the 15th of September, and it's vitally important for both of us. I'm a cancer survivor and she just needs it because of her age."

LECOM's next vaccination clinic will be held on September 10th from 8:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. George's Church on Peach Street.

Vaccines will also be issued to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the LECOM Center for Health and Aging at 3910 Schaper Ave. 

A full list of all upcoming vaccine clinics can be found on LECOM's website. 

No appointment is needed, but patients are required to bring a government-issued identification card, and an insurance card.