Flu Shot Clinics Set To Start In Ocean County

First we dealt with heatwaves and thunderstorms.  There's still the threat for West Nile Virus lingering on as well.  Now, get ready for flu season.

Although a few months away, the Ocean County Health Department isn't wasting any time.  They are currently arming themselves with enough vaccine for the season and the new clinic schedule is ready to go.

Department Spokesperson Leslie Terjesen says "the first of the clinics take place on Monday, September 17th at our office on Sunset Avenue in Toms River from 10 a.m. until 12 noon."

All people 6 months of age and older should get vaccinated against seasonal Flu every year.
Children younger than 6 months of age are at high risk of serious complications due to flu illness but are too young to be vaccinated.  People who care for them should be vaccinated instead.
Vaccination is especially important for pregnant women and people with chronic diseases.

3 CHOICES FOR FLU VACCINATION

Three (3) choices of Flu vaccine are available (If you are NOT allergic to eggs):
(You will need to choose at the time of the clinic)

1.     "Regular dose" for all people 6 months of age and older
If you have received a Flu shot in the past, this is most likely what you received.  It is given by injection into the muscle of the upper arm.  This vaccine gives good protection from severe disease but you can still get the Flu even if you have been vaccinated.  You cannot get the Flu from a Flu shot.

2.    "High-dose" for people 65 years of age and older
This is a newer vaccine, available for the last couple of years, which is designed to provide a higher immunity level for those in this age group.  This age group is at a higher risk of severe consequences if they get the Flu.

3.    "Intradermal" for people 18-64 years of age
This vaccine is given into the skin of the upper arm with a needle that is 90% smaller than the needle used for the "regular" vaccination.  It provides the same protection as other Flu vaccines for this age group.

Flu and pneumonia immunizations are $20 for everyone except those with non-HMO Medicare Part B coverage.

You can also call the Ocean County Health Department at (732) 341-9700, ext. 7502 or click ochd.org