COVID
Available at all AgeWise Maine clinics
Routine immunizations keep you and your family protected from COVID-19, just like seasonal flu shots. The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices has authorized a new COVID-19 vaccine formulation for the Fall of 2024.
Everyone ages 6 years+ should get the new COVID-19 vaccine available in Fall 2024.
Older adults and persons with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk for hospitalization and severe health complications due to COVID-19 so should be immunized.
COVID-19 vaccines are covered by insurance, including private insurance, Medicare plans, and Medicaid plans. Uninsured children and adults also have access through the vaccine at AgeWise Maine clinics for free depending on income eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone age 6 months+ should be vaccinated this fall for the new strain of COVID-19. Immunizations are readily available across Maine and continue to be the best protection against infection and severe illness. If you are 65+ or are immunocompromised, you may be at greatest risk of contracting COVID-19 and suffering the most severe consequences, including hospitalization and death. Staying up-to-date on your COVID-19 immunization is a smart choice for your health and wellness, just like any other immunization.
What does it mean to be “up-to-date”? For COVID-19 immunizations, you’re current once you complete your primary series and have received the most up-to-date vaccination recommended by the CDC. In this case, it means that you’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine in Fall 2024. You’ll receive the most up-to-date version of the vaccine at the AgeWise Maine clinics.
Flu
Available at clinics
The flu vaccine is very important for adults 60+ and people with chronic health conditions. Get your seasonal flu (influenza) vaccine by the end of October or soon after. The AgeWiseMaine Initiative clinics will be offering the flu vaccine specifically for people ages 65+ as well as the standard vaccine for anyone younger than 65.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare team will be offering both the flu vaccine for people ages 65+ and a flu vaccine for everyone under 65.
If you are covered by health insurance, please bring your insurance card. However, if you are uninsured – it’s not a problem. No one will be turned away due to an inability to pay.
Everyone age 6 months+ should get a flu shot this fall. Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious influenza complications or people who live with or care for people at higher risk for serious influenza complications.
RSV
Not available at clinics, please contact your physician
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common, contagious virus that usually causes mild symptoms. In older adults, or people with certain underlying conditions, RSV can cause severe infections.
Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious influenza complications or people who live with or care for people at higher risk for serious influenza complications.
Anyone age 60+ should be vaccinated for RSV with a single dose.
Shingles
Not available at clinics, please contact your physician
The shingles vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) prevents shingles and related complications in adults 50+. The CDC recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine even if in the past you have had shingles, received Zostavax (a vaccine no longer available in the U.S.) or received the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions
CDC recommends that adults 50 years and older get two doses of the shingles vaccine called Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine) to prevent shingles and complications from the disease.
Shingrix is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and PHN. Immunity stays strong for at least the first 7 years after vaccination.
Pneumonia
Not available at clinics, please contact your physician
Adults 65+ should be vaccinated for pneumonia or people with underlying conditions. Speak with your PCP about what’s right for you.
