Who among us actually likes getting a shot of any kind? There are certainly a given number of masochistic types out there who don’t mind taking a little jab in the arm or … elsewhere.

But many of us put off or completely avoid the prickly deed for as long as we can push it, until the cold and flu season completely bypasses us altogether, or we fall victim to the merciless clutches of our microbiological nemeses. What’s more, with the threat of COVID-19 looming over our heads, it’s more important than ever to protect ourselves though the oncoming flu season.

And so, the City of Somerville comes to the rescue with its annual flu vaccine clinics, already in progress, offering free flu vaccines for Somerville residents ages 3 and older at various times and locations throughout the city until the city’s supply of vaccine is exhausted.

Go online right away to find out the times and locations of the scheduled clinics at: https://www.somervillema.gov/flu. Pre-registration is required for all city flu clinics.

As a coronavirus safety measure, attendees must make an appointment in advance so that staff can safely manage the flow of those seeking vaccinations

One quick jab in the arm or … you know where … can make a difference between enjoying a happy, healthy fall and winter or facing a miserably bleak one. Let’s face it, taking the time and effort to do this will be well worth it.

And your family, friends, coworkers, and everyone else you regularly come into contact with will thank you too.