OCEAN COUNTY – “The Ocean County Health Department has posted its additional flu sites on its website at ochd.org,” said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator. He added, “We are beginning to see more cases of flu locally and want our residents to know it is not too late to get their vaccination.
It can take up to two weeks to develop enough antibodies to protect you from the flu so try to get your flu shot as soon as possible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance, this year’s flu vaccine is protective against the majority of strains of flu that are in circulation this season.
Also, beginning in January, children over six months of age and children under 60 months, who are in a licensed day care facility, will need to show proof that they have received the flu shot or will be excused from attending that facility.”
“At the flu sites, we also offer the pneumonia vaccine. Medicare Part B covers the cost of a flu or pneumonia shot. For those without Medicare Part B or have a Medicare Managed Plan, the cost will be $20.00. A physician’s note or prescription is required for a pneumonia shot for those under the age of 65.
The dates, times and sites of the clinics are:
January 13, 1 to 3 p.m., Ocean County Health Department, 175 Sunset Ave., Toms River.
January 24, 1 to 3 p.m., Center for Health, Education, Medicine and Dentistry (CHEMED), 1771 Madison Ave., Conference Room, Lakewood.
February 9, 1 to 3 p.m., Ocean County Health Department, 333 Haywood Road, Manahawkin.
February 13, 1 to 3 p.m., Ocean County Health Department, 175 Sunset Ave., Toms River.