Alameda is experiencing the biggest surge of COVID-19 since Omicron in 2021 [1]. According to the City’s latest statistics, 71% of residents on the main island are not up to date on their vaccines, nor are 62% of Bay Farm residents.
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The updated COVID vaccine provides a high level of protection against current variants, and most vaccinations are free for those with medical insurance. For those who do not have insurance, free vaccinations are available in Alameda at local pharmacies.
Influenza also is hitting the Bay Area hard, with hospitalizations on the rise. This flu season is expected to coincide with continued circulation of the virus that causes COVID-19, according to the Alameda County Department of Public Health [3]. “The flu vaccine is important every year, but this season it’s critical,” the website states.
Free vaccinations for both flu and COVID-19 are available for uninsured adults and children over 5 through the CDC’s Bridge Access Program [4], in which most local pharmacies participate.
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Where you can get free vaccinations
The following locations in Alameda participate in the Bridge Access Program and provide free vaccinations for those without health insurance:
- CVS Pharmacy, 2314 Santa Clara Ave., COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Book an appointment online [6] or call 510-523-4929.
- CVS Pharmacy, 2700 Fifth St. (inside Target), COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Book an appointment online [6] at or call 510-214-0932.
- Walgreen’s, 2300 Otis Dr., COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Check availability online [7] or call 510-523-7043.
- Walgreen’s, 1916 Webster St., COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Check availability online [7] or call 510-864-2800.
- Safeway Pharmacy, 2227 South Shore Center, COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Book an appointment online [8] or call 510-863-9004.
- Safeway Pharmacy, 867 Island Dr., COVID and flu vaccinations available for adults and children over 5. Book an appointment online [8] or call 510-747-1647.