Dear patients,

While fall signifies a beautiful foliage season in Maine, this time of year is also the beginning of respiratory illness season. Over the next several months, we expect an increase in vaccine-preventable respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

As we move into the fall season, we want to share an update with you regarding vaccinations and our seasonal clinic.

Flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines

Our seasonal vaccine clinic at 225 Gorham Road in South Portland is now open. Flu vaccines are now being offered and COVID-19 vaccines will become available on Monday, October 2.

You can find additional information and an appointment scheduling link on our website.

We strongly recommend that you stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and receive a flu shot each year from InterMed or a community pharmacy. Vaccination is effective at protecting against serious illness, hospitalization and death.

The following vaccines are available at InterMed’s seasonal clinic:

• Adult flu vaccines for patients 18 years and older
• Pediatric flu vaccines for children 6 months and older
• Updated COVID vaccines

Please contact your care team through the MyInterMed patient portal or by phone if you have any vaccine concerns before your appointment, including if  you have a history of severe egg allergy, Guillain-Barré syndrome or an immune system disorder (before receiving flu vaccine) OR you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous COVID vaccine dose (before receiving another COVID vaccine).

What is RSV?  

RSV is a common respiratory illness spread through direct contact with the virus, such as contact with droplets from another person’s cough or by touching a surface, like a doorknob, that has the virus on it. RSV typically causes cold-like symptoms but can be more severe for some groups of people including infants and older adults.

Who should receive the new RSV vaccine? 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adults 60 years and older consider receiving a single dose of RSV vaccine, based on discussions between the patient and physician. While there is currently no RSV vaccine for children, pregnant individuals can receive the RSV vaccine to help protect their infant from RSV after birth, especially during their first six months of life. If you are 60 years or older or pregnant and wish to receive the RSV vaccine, please contact your InterMed care team.

For more information, see https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/rsv/public/older-adults.html

Where do I receive the RSV vaccine? 

If you are eligible for the vaccine, you can receive it at your local pharmacy with a prescription from your InterMed physician or NP/PA. If you have questions about the cost of the vaccine, please contact your insurance company.

We are honored to be entrusted with your care. Please stay safe and well.

Sincerely,

Chief Medical Officer Dan Loiselle, MD, and the entire InterMed care team