BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen Amato recently announced that the Ocean County Health Department will be hosting its annual influenza (flu) and pneumonia shot program. Beginning Sept. 26, the program will be offered at several locations throughout Berkeley Township.
The first program will be held on Sept. 26 at Holiday City Carefree from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
“The 2018 seasonal flu shot theme this year is The Flu Ends with U. This points out that the flu shot will not only protect you, but that we each have a hand in protecting those around us,” stated Amato.
The CDC recommends anyone over the age of 6 months receive the flu vaccine.
“Influenza is contagious and caused by the influenza virus, which can be spread by coughing, sneezing, or nasal secretions. Although anyone can get influenza, rates of infection are highest among children. Symptoms usually last only a few days in most people and include: fever, cough, sore throat, headaches, chills, muscle aches and fatigue,” said Amato.
The flu and pneumonia shots are both covered by Medicare Part B. For those without Medicare Part B, each shot costs $20. If you are under 65 years old, you will need a physician’s note or prescription for a pneumonia shot.
Berkley’s program schedule includes:
- 26: Holiday City Carefree, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
- 2: Holiday City South, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
- 2: Berkeley Library (Station Road), 5-7 p.m.
- 3: Holiday City West, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- 26: Silver Ridge Park West, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
For Berkeley Residents residing in Pelican Island and South Seaside Park:
- 25: Lavallette First Aid Squad, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Mayor Amato also noted that the Ocean County Health Department will also be offering the Live Healthy Ocean County program. The program includes chronic disease screening services, Tdap and Shingles vaccination.
Live Healthy Ocean County will be offered at the September 26 clinic at Holiday City Carefree.
For more information, call the OCHD at 732-341-9700, or visit the OCHD website at ochd.org.
