H1N1 Influenza and Pneumonia vaccine available by appointment on Thursdays from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Please call (617) 972-6446 to schedule an appointment.

Local Boards of Health have a crucial role in the prevention and control of communicable diseases in the community. The Watertown Health Department promotes and protects the health and well being of the individual, family, and community in Watertown.

The Public Health Nurse provides clinical evaluation, case management, epidemiology and health education, and skills essential in helping to protect the health of Watertown.

The Public Health Nurse's responsibilities are based on laws, regulations, and good practice. These include but are not limited to:

• Communicable disease investigation
• Oversee the Tuberculosis Program. Find more about the Health Department's tuberculosis screening services
• Organize and conduct immunization clinics for influenza
• Provide education, consultation, and referrals for individuals, health care provides and other agencies.

Required by the 105 CMR 300.000, the Health Department follows, investigates, and follows up on a list of infectious diseases that may endanger the public. Collaborating with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and health providers, the Public Health Nurse assists with enforcement of State isolation and quarantine regulations.

View the State's fact sheets on infectious diseases.

The Best way to prevent the spread of disease is by proper handwashing.
Handwashing Video Demonstration.


H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Information
CDC H1N1 Influenza Information
Massachusetts Department of Public Health H1N1 Influenza Site

Homebound Vaccination for Influenza and Pneumonia- By appointment only

Influenza and Pneumonia vaccine clinics - scheduled for mid-fall

Where can I throw out my syringes?

Syringes may be discarded by bringing them to the Household Medical Waste disposal days. Refer to the events calendar or call the Health Department to find out when the next disposal day will be held. Follow these tips while handling syringes.

How can I dispose of my medications?

Medications may be discarded by bringing them to the Household Medical Waste disposal days. Refer to the events calendar or call the Health Department to find out when the next disposal day will be held. If you cannot attend the Household Medical Waste disposal days please follow these tips to properly discard your medications. 

Where can I receive a seasonal flu (influenza) shot?

You can receive a seasonal flu shot by attending one of our free flu clinics or by calling your primary care physician to schedule an appointment. Refer to the events calendar,  see seasonal influenza schedule or call the Health Department to find out when the free flu clinic are being held.

Refer to this page to find out how you can decrease your chances of getting the flu and refer to this page to find out more informtion about the flu vaccine.

Where can I receive a pneumonia vaccine?

You can receive a pneumonia vaccine by attending a pneumonia vaccine clinic or by calling your primary care physician to schedule an appointment. Refer to the events calendar, view informational flier , or call the Health Department to find out when the clinics are being held.

Refer to this page to find out more information about the pneumonia vaccine.