Department Of Health To Sponsor Free Flu Shot Clinic In Baskin Ridge

From the Somerset County Government:

February 22, 2020

Chances are that you know at least one person who has recently had the flu, since experts report that flu activity is high this season. Somerset County Freeholder Brian G. Gallagher, public health liaison, is urging anyone age 6 months and above to get a flu shot if they have not already received one.

According to the New Jersey Department of Health, influenza, commonly called the flu, is currently widespread throughout New Jersey including Somerset County. To help combat the flu, the Somerset County Department of Health is sponsoring a free flu clinic for anyone age 18 years and above on the following date and time:

• Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 4to 7 p.m., at the Franklin Township Community/Senior Center, located at 505 Demott Lane, Somerset

It is not too late to protect yourself and your family from the flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this year is particularly bad for the flu. Flu activity is currently high in the U.S. and is expected to continue for weeks.

Getting an annual flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu, especially very young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions who are more vulnerable to serious flu complications.

Influenza is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can become serious. Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. In some cases, people may experience vomiting and diarrhea. If you or a loved one’s symptoms are severe, it is important to consult a doctor or an urgent care facility as soon as possible to ensure that proper treatment is received. Parents of children needing a seasonal flu shot should check with their pediatrician or health care provider.

It is also important to take preventive actions such as avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands regularly to help reduce the spread of germs. To prevent spreading flu to others it is recommended that people who are infected with the flu stay home from work or school until they are well.

For information on flu clinics, contact the Somerset County Department of Health at 908-231-7155 or HealthDept@co.somerset.nj.us.

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This press release was produced by the Somerset County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.