Portland, Maine (November 1, 2011) –VNA Home Health Hospice, an affiliate of Mercy Health System of Maine continues to bring clinically excellent preventative health care to 
all by offering $25 flu shots on November 13, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wyndham Hotel in South Portland as part of the inaugural Health Care Expo.
The goal of the Health Care expo is to provide opportunities for people to learn about healthier living choices and seek interactive health care information.
“With the flu virus continuing to evolve, it is important for everyone to consider getting a flu shot, especially those at high-risk of contracting the flu,” advised Colleen Hilton, CEO, VNA Home Health Hospice.
According to the CDC those at-risk include:
- Pregnant women
- Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
- People 50 years of age and older
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
- People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
- People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
- Health care workers
- Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
- Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)
Admission to the Expo is free of charge, those interested in getting a flu shot are encouraged to bring their Medicare, Maine Care, Anthem, Aetna, or Harvard Pilgrim insurance card and VNA will bill providers directly. Patients insured by other carriers will receive a receipt to submit to their insurance for reimbursement. Those without insurance or available funds for the shot will not be turned away.
This year’s HealthCare Expo events will highlight the dedication, innovation, compassion and exemplary achievements associated with healthcare being provided every day by Mercy Health System of Maine and various other providers in the State.
About Mercy Health System of Maine
Mercy Health System of Maine is a growing community of healthcare providers who provide clinically-excellent, compassionate care. A recognized leader in quality, safety, innovation and patient experience, Mercy operates campuses throughout southern Maine, offering a broad range of medical and surgical services, as well as primary and specialty care. The story of Mercy includes Mercy Hospital, Gary’s House, McAuley Residence, Mercy Recovery Center, and VNA Home Health & Hospice. For more information, please call (207) 879-3486 or visit www.mercyhospital.org.
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