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.

But the City of Somerville comes to the rescue with its annual flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics, beginning on Thursday, October 9, offering free flu vaccines for Somerville residents ages four and older at various times and locations throughout the city until the city’s supply of vaccine is exhausted.

Vaccines are an important tool for helping people stay safe from flu, COVID-19, and other viruses. The City of Somerville holds regular vaccine clinics. They’re also important tools for keeping Somerville safe.

The CDC recommends that everyone six months or older get a flu and COVID-19 vaccine unless otherwise advised by their doctor. Go online right away to find out the times and locations of the scheduled clinics at: https://www.somervillema.gov/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.