(Gloucester Township, NJ) – The Freeholder Board is reminding residents that it’s not too late to receive the influenza vaccination. Although flu season started several months ago, the Centers for Disease Control warns that flu activity most often peaks between December and February, and the New Jersey Department of Health is currently reporting high levels of influenza activity in all regions and counties.
“Flu season stretches through the winter months, and in some years influenza activity has peaked as late as March, that’s why we’re reminding everyone that just because you haven’t gotten sick yet, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect yourself and your family from this dangerous virus,” said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Camden County Health Department. “Flu shots are especially recommended to those in high priority groups including seniors, pregnant women, and those who are chronically ill.”
Health officials recommend receiving a flu shot annually because the influenza virus constantly mutates and changes in order to adapt to different conditions. For people with weakened immune or cardiovascular systems, chronic metabolic diseases, renal dysfunction or blood disorders, flu shots are especially important.
Statewide, officials are reporting an increase in Type B influenza strains, which, like Type A, can cause serious respiratory illnesses and fast-spreading epidemics.
“In addition to getting vaccinated, the most important thing is to be washing your hands properly and often with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer,” Rodriguez said. “Make sure you’re teaching children to wash their hands properly, and to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible.”
Residents can still receive the influenza vaccination at Camden County’s Regional Health Centers in Bellmawr and Camden City.
To schedule an appointment, please contact the appropriate center:
Bellmawr Regional Health Center
35 E. Browning Road
Bellmawr, NJ 08031
(856) 931-2700
Board of Social Services Building
600 Market Street, Basement B-55
Camden, NJ 08102
856-756-2266
For additional information about where and how to receive the flu vaccine residents can contact the county Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-999-9045, or visit www.camdencounty.com, or contact their primary physician.